Introduction
Work-life balance is essential for employees in the corporate sector. However, the world is changing, and the old ways are often discontinued. The same goes for the way of working in the modern setting. The balance of working is being replaced by the hustle culture of grinding and effort maximisation. But is it really worth it, or does it make a difference? Let’s look into the onset of hustle culture in the corporate sector and how it can change the entire view of work-life balance.
Corporate Work-Life Balance
Working a dedicated amount of hours per day while managing other aspects of personal life is the goal of work-life balance. The ideal example is the work culture of Scandinavian countries, where people work in a balanced manner. They are paid for their efforts, and the quality of work is charming.
However, with the rise of the online world, the pace of development is often at odds with the efforts of employees. This creates a toxic work environment where balance is discouraged, and hard work is appreciated.
Hustle Culture Is The New Norm?
One such product of a competitive work environment is the hustle culture. It is a way of working in which hard work and persistent effort are appreciated by employees. This means working above your pay grade to take a career leap.
But does it really work? The answer is both complicated and subjective. For some people, hard work can lead them to new career heights. However, for others, it often leads to insecurity, burnout, and an imbalanced life.
Hustling is More Attractive Than Balance
But why are people or employees attracted to hustling? The answer is they don’t want the feeling of being left behind. The whole modern human work is an endeavour to earn more money. The capital has replaced human values at the top of the pyramid.
So, now everyone wants to get ahead in life for status, which comes after money. This leads to a culture where working hard becomes the norm. Moreover, the hustling environment becomes attractive to young employees who want to take giant strides in their careers within a few years.
The Normalisation of Hustle Culture on Social Media
Now comes social media. The place of perfection and narrative. You see all the young and successful people online. Upon seeing their status, you get insecure about your present. And when you look into their lives, you see them working or hustling a lot.
This leads to similar work habits that are far from balanced or normal. However, the reality is very different: social media stories are merely a projection of a false narrative by people or corporations seeking to control human effort.
The FOMO Effect of Hustle Culture
Fear of missing out is the way social media and trends like hustle culture operate. They make you feel lost in life, and the only way to get out is to work hard. But in most cases, this does not help your career nor make you a better person. You’re just playing a game that is rigged to the core. And to win, you don’t have to play. Therefore, the next time you see someone successful promoting hustling, ask yourself: Is it really the truth or a projection of lies?
Repercussions of Hustling for Corporate Employees
Unfortunately, many people are falling into the abyss of working hard when, in reality, it’s just profit maximisation. In the case of corporations, employees are often led to believe their efforts are not up to par. That’s why many people who opt for hustling end up burning out their minds.
Not only that, but some face serious mental health issues, which can affect their overall well-being. So, before hustling, think about your life and mind because there’s more to life as well.
Is Work-Life Balance Possible Today?
The modern environment does not like work-life balance. They often portray it as a myth or the old way. Furthermore, there is discouragement toward people who opt for a balanced life. This is the truth. You’re doing nothing with your life until you’re working 12-14 hours per day.
But if you really want peace in your life, don’t let these statements influence you. Work to support the people around you, but don’t forget to invest in skills because that is the real capital of being human.
Defining Real Success
Money has changed the definition of success. In the modern world, a person’s hierarchy is judged by their bank balance. Since money is at the top of the value pyramid, the world revolves around earning more and more. However, in doing this, they are losing the essence of being a good person who is empathetic and good.
So, if we want to thrive as a society, we need to put the values of good faith in individuals. This is the path of progress, not hustle culture, which is devolved, rooted in comparison and insecurity.