The truth about hustle culture: When hard work goes too far

You’re on a road trip, cruising down an open highway, feeling the wind in your hair. You pass a car that’s speeding ahead, weaving through traffic like it’s in a race. It looks impressive — until you notice the driver, stressed and clutching the wheel so tightly their knuckles are white.

Sure, they’re moving fast, but they’re also burning out, focusing so much on speed that they’re missing out on the scenery.

That’s what hustle culture often feels like in real life. It’s the constant rush to achieve more, push harder, and go faster, all at the expense of our well-being. What may seem like dedication and productivity can quickly lead to exhaustion and burnout.

As leaders, it's time to rethink how you are approaching success. Let’s explore how hustle culture can negatively impact your employees’ mental health, and work-life balance, and why slowing down might be the smarter route.

What is hustle culture, and why is it bad?

Hustle culture is a contemporary work phenomenon that glorifies the constant pursuit of productivity and success, often at the expense of an individual's well-being. Rooted in the belief that busyness equates to progress, hustle culture encourages long working hours, constant multitasking, and the relentless drive to achieve professional goals.

The incessant pressure to meet unrealistic expectations can lead to burnout, a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion.

Employees navigating hustle culture often find themselves on a perpetual treadmill, grappling with stress, anxiety, and a blurred boundary between work and personal life.

Data from the World Health Organization shows that in 2016, more than 700,000 deaths were caused by working long hours.

The relentless pursuit of success, while seemingly productive, can result in diminished creativity, compromised decision-making, and a strained work-life balance. Moreover, hustle culture tends to overlook the importance of rest, reflection, and self-care, essential elements for sustained productivity and mental well-being.

This unbalanced approach not only jeopardizes the health of individuals but also undermines the long-term success of organizations by fostering a workforce that is emotionally drained and less resilient. In essence, the drawbacks of hustle culture underscore the necessity of cultivating a work environment that values both achievement and the holistic welfare of employees.

What is toxic productivity?

Toxic productivity refers to an unhealthy and counterproductive approach to work that prioritizes excessive output and relentless activity at the expense of well-being and genuine achievement. Unlike a positive and constructive work ethic, toxic productivity involves an obsessive focus on constant busyness, often driven by external pressures, societal expectations, or internal anxieties.

Individuals subscribing to toxic productivity may feel compelled to overwork, set unattainable goals, and sacrifice their mental and physical health in the pursuit of success.

This grind mindset often leads to burnout, a state of chronic exhaustion characterized by emotional fatigue, reduced performance, and a sense of detachment from everyday life.

Toxic productivity can manifest in various forms, such as an inability to relax, an obsession with perfectionism, and a persistent feeling of inadequacy despite significant accomplishments. Moreover, toxic productivity can negatively impact interpersonal relationships, as individuals may struggle to prioritize personal connections over work-related tasks.

It undermines the importance of rest, leisure, and self-care, which are crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and sustained productivity. Recognizing and addressing toxic productivity involves fostering a workplace culture that values realistic goals, emphasizes the significance of downtime, and encourages employees to prioritize their overall well-being.

A balanced and sustainable approach to work ensures not only productivity but also the long-term health and fulfillment of individuals.

Why is hustle culture glorified?

Hustle culture is often glorified for several reasons, reflecting societal and workplace dynamics that contribute to its widespread acceptance:

• Success narrative: Hustle culture is often tied to success stories of individuals who have achieved remarkable goals through hard work and dedication. The "hustle to succeed" narrative can be compelling, inspiring others to adopt a similar approach in their pursuit of success.
• Economic pressure: In competitive economic environments, the fear of falling behind or facing financial instability drives individuals and organizations to work hard. The belief that working harder leads to greater financial rewards can make people more willing to sacrifice their well-being for professional success.
• Entrepreneurial idealization: The rise of entrepreneurship as an ideal career path has contributed to the glorification of hustle culture. Entrepreneurs frequently share stories of overcoming challenges through relentless work, influencing others to adopt the same work ethic.
• Social validation: In a culture that values productivity and achievement, successful individuals may seek validation and recognition through their work. Hustle culture offers a framework for social validation, where being busy and achieving professional goals is seen as a measure of self-worth.
• Technology and connectivity: Advances in technology and increased connectivity have blurred the boundaries between work and personal life. The ability to work remotely and stay connected to work tasks encourages a continuous, hustle-driven mindset.
• Fear of missing out (FOMO): The fear of missing out on opportunities or falling behind peers can drive individuals to embrace hustle culture. Social comparison and the desire to keep pace with others in a rapidly changing world contribute to the glorification of constant productivity.
• Corporate expectations: Within corporate environments, employees may feel pressured to demonstrate dedication and commitment through long hours and constant pursuit of professional goals. This expectation, whether implicit or explicit, can foster a culture of workplace hustle.
• Media influence: The media plays a significant role in glorifying hustle culture by showcasing success stories of individuals who work tirelessly to achieve their dreams. The constant bombardment of images and narratives about high-achieving entrepreneurs and influencers who emphasize "hustle" as a key to success reinforces the idea that constant work is necessary to reach the top.
• Peer pressure: In some social circles, working non-stop and constantly being busy is seen as a sign of ambition and success. This peer pressure can push individuals to adopt hustle culture in order to fit in or gain respect within their community, contributing to the normalization of burnout and overwork.
• Short-term gratification: Hustle culture often rewards visible, short-term results over long-term sustainability. Immediate achievements or rewards, such as promotions, recognition, or financial gain, can be addictive, leading individuals to prioritize working harder to continue reaping these benefits. This emphasis on quick results over long-term health and balance fuels the continuous cycle of hustle.

The pros and cons of hustle culture

Hustle culture, often celebrated for its emphasis on hard work and dedication, has become a popular norm in many workplaces. However, the intense focus on continuous productivity comes with its own set of drawbacks. Let’s explore the cons and pros of hustle culture, starting with the negative impacts.

Cons of hustle culture:

1. Burnout: The constant push for more leads to exhaustion and burnout. Employees working long hours without proper rest often experience a decline in their physical and mental health, leading to fatigue, anxiety, and a decrease in overall productivity.
2. Poor work-life balance: Hustle culture blurs the lines between work and personal life. With the pressure to work outside regular hours, employees find it difficult to enjoy personal time, which can strain relationships and hinder overall well-being.
3. Increased stress and anxiety: The constant demand to perform can elevate stress levels. Many workers feel overwhelmed by high expectations and unrealistic deadlines, leading to anxiety, depression, and a fear of failure.
4. Reduced creativity: The pressure to produce at high speeds stifles creative thinking. When employees are constantly rushing to meet deadlines, they have little time to think deeply or come up with innovative solutions, impacting long-term progress.
5. Health issues: The relentless nature of the hustling culture often leads to physical health problems. Lack of sleep, poor eating habits, and high levels of stress can result in serious conditions, including heart disease and weakened immune systems.

Pros of hustle culture:

1. Increased short-term productivity: For some, hustle and grind culture can lead to heightened focus and efficiency. The desire to achieve quickly can spur individuals to work harder and accomplish more in a shorter period.
2. Sense of achievement: Those who embrace a hustling culture often feel a sense of accomplishment as they meet deadlines and exceed expectations. This can provide short-term motivation and drive.
3. Career advancement: Individuals who go above and beyond in hustle culture may catch the attention of leadership, leading to career growth and promotional opportunities, especially in fast-paced industries.

The negative impact of hustle culture on mental health

Data from a 2022 Deloitte survey shows that 70% of C-level executives often consider quitting their jobs for one that better supports their well-being.

This shows that hustle culture's relentless emphasis on constant productivity and the pursuit of success can have profound negative effects on mental health and push employees to leave a company.

1. Burnout: The pressure to constantly hustle without adequate rest or breaks can lead to burnout—a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion. Burnout is characterized by feelings of cynicism, reduced performance, and a sense of detachment from work.
2. Chronic stress: Hustle culture often promotes an environment of chronic stress, where individuals feel overwhelmed by work-related stress, the demands of work, and the need to prove their worth continually. Prolonged exposure to high-stress levels can contribute to various mental health issues, including anxiety and depression.
3. Anxiety and perfectionism: The relentless pursuit of success in hustle culture can foster anxiety and perfectionism. For example, Individuals may feel a constant need to meet unrealistic standards, fearing failure or judgment if they fall short. This perfectionist mindset can exacerbate stress and hinder overall well-being.
4. Impaired work-life balance: Hustle culture blurs the boundaries between work and personal life, making it challenging for individuals to disconnect from professional responsibilities. This impaired work-life balance can lead to increased stress, strained relationships, and a lack of time for personal pursuits and relaxation.
5. Decreased creativity and innovation: The constant pressure to hustle may stifle creativity and innovation. Mental fatigue resulting from overwork can hinder the brain's ability to think creatively and solve problems, ultimately impacting an individual's long-term effectiveness and contributions.

What are the symptoms of hustle culture?

If you notice these symptoms, then your company might have a hustle culture.

1. Excessive busyness: Individuals in hustle culture often glorify busyness, wearing it as a badge of honor, which can lead to chronic stress and burnout.
2. Perfectionism: A relentless pursuit of flawlessness and an intolerance for mistakes are common symptoms, contributing to heightened stress levels.
3. Sleep disturbances: Insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns may arise due to an overactive mind and heightened stress associated with the culture of constant hustle.
4. Neglect of self-care: Individuals may prioritize work over self-care, neglecting activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
5. Elevated anxiety: Anxiety levels may increase as individuals constantly strive to meet high expectations, fearing failure or judgment.
6. Reduced creativity: The pressure to produce results quickly may stifle creative thinking, hindering innovation and problem-solving abilities.
7. Social isolation: An intense focus on work commitments can lead to isolation, distancing individuals from social connections crucial for mental health.
8. Physical symptoms: Physical manifestations of stress, such as headaches, fatigue, and muscle tension, can manifest due to the constant pressure associated with hustle culture.
9. Diminished job satisfaction: Despite achieving professional milestones, individuals may experience reduced job satisfaction, as the relentless pursuit of success takes a toll on overall well-being.
10. Constant self-comparison: Individuals in hustle culture often measure their worth by comparing themselves to others, leading to feelings of inadequacy or competition. This constant comparison can increase stress and feelings of never being "enough," even when achievements are met.
11. Difficulty disconnecting: The inability to fully disconnect from work, even during personal time or vacations, is another symptom of hustle culture. Constantly checking emails, messages, or thinking about work can prevent individuals from truly relaxing and recharging, leading to exhaustion.
12. Lack of boundaries: In hustle culture, personal and professional boundaries tend to blur. Individuals may find it difficult to set limits on working hours or say "no" to additional tasks, which leads to overwork and reduced time for personal life.
13. Burnout: Persistent exhaustion, feelings of helplessness, and a lack of motivation are classic signs of burnout in hustle culture. As employees push themselves too hard, they may eventually feel mentally and physically drained, unable to perform at their best.
14. Impaired decision-making: The pressure to always be on the go can impair decision-making abilities. Individuals may rush through tasks without taking the time to properly analyze situations, leading to poor decisions and mistakes that add more stress to their workload.
15. Decreased emotional well-being: The constant demand to keep up with hustle culture can lead to a dip in emotional well-being. Individuals may experience irritability, mood swings, or feelings of being overwhelmed, as the continuous push for success takes an emotional toll.

Examples of hustle culture in the workplace

Hustle culture in the workplace can often seem like a badge of honor, with employees pushing themselves to work longer hours and go the extra mile to achieve success. While it may lead to short-term gains, it can also result in burnout, stress, and reduced productivity in the long run. Here are 10 hustle culture examples that can commonly be seen in workplaces:

1. Long working hours: Employees regularly stay late, working beyond their standard hours to meet deadlines or expectations, often sacrificing personal time.
2. Weekend work: The expectation to be available on weekends, with work emails and calls being common even during supposed time off.
3. Constant availability: Employees are expected to be reachable at all times, whether it's through emails, messages, or calls, even when off the clock.
4. Unrealistic deadlines: Managers often set tight deadlines, pressuring teams to work long hours to meet them, creating a cycle of stress and rushed work.
5. Ignoring personal boundaries: Work extends into personal life, with little to no distinction between the two. This could include attending meetings late at night or checking work messages during family time.
6. Burnout as a norm: Pushing through exhaustion becomes normalized, and employees may even feel pressure to work while sick or mentally drained.
7. Overemphasis on productivity: An excessive focus on output and meeting targets, often overlooking the need for breaks, rest, or recovery.
8. Perpetual self-criticism: Employees constantly compare their workload and productivity against others, leading to a feeling of never doing enough, no matter how much they accomplish.
9. Lack of recognition: Employees may work tirelessly without adequate acknowledgment or rewards, leading to frustration and disengagement.
10. Failure to disconnect: There’s little encouragement for employees to disconnect from work, leading to a constant feeling of being "on the clock" even when not physically working.

How do we help employees recover from hustle culture burnout?

By implementing the following strategies, organizations can create a supportive and sustainable work environment that aids in the recovery from hustle culture burnout, fostering healthier, more resilient employees.

• Encourage open communication: Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their burnout experiences. Encourage open conversations about workload, stressors, and personal challenges.
• Flexible work arrangements: Provide flexibility in work hours or remote work options to allow employees to balance their professional and personal lives and responsibilities better. This flexibility can help alleviate burnout.
• Promote boundaries: Encourage clear boundaries between work and personal life. Discourage after-hours emails or expectations, allowing employees to disconnect from social media and recharge during non-working hours.
• Offer mental health support: Provide access to mental health resources, such as counseling services or Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), to support employees in managing stress and burnout.
• Educate on time management: Offer training on effective time management and prioritization. Helping employees organize their tasks can contribute to a more manageable workload and reduce stress.
• Recognize and celebrate achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate employees' accomplishments to instill a sense of appreciation. This recognition can boost morale and counterbalance the negative effects of burnout.
• Encourage regular breaks: Emphasize the importance of taking breaks throughout the day. Short breaks can enhance productivity, reduce stress, and contribute to overall well-being.
• Provide professional development opportunities: Offer opportunities for skill development and personal growth. This can rekindle a sense of purpose and motivation, counteracting the monotony that often accompanies burnout.
• Establish a supportive work environment: Cultivate a workplace culture that prioritizes support and teamwork. Encourage colleagues to assist each other during peak times and share responsibilities.
• Promote self-care: Advocate for self-care practices, such as exercise, mindfulness, and sufficient sleep. Create an environment where employees feel empowered to prioritize their well-being.

How HR leaders can address and prevent toxic hustle culture?

HR leaders play a crucial role in addressing and preventing toxic hustle culture within organizations. Here are seven effective strategies to foster a healthier work environment:

1. Set realistic expectations: Clearly define achievable goals and deadlines to ensure employees don’t feel overburdened. Avoid placing undue pressure on staff to constantly perform at maximum capacity, which can contribute to burnout.
2. Create a balanced workload: Regularly assess workloads across teams to ensure they are distributed fairly. Implement tools or processes to help managers gauge whether their teams are overwhelmed and adjust expectations accordingly.
3. Encourage work-life integration: Emphasize the importance of integrating work with personal life, rather than pushing employees to compartmentalize the two. Encourage practices that help employees balance both without compromising their well-being.
4. Foster a culture of trust: Build a break culture where employees feel empowered to take time off or slow down without fearing negative consequences. Trust your team to meet their goals without constantly monitoring their every move.
5. Develop leadership training: Equip managers with the skills to recognize the signs of burnout and stress within their teams. Train them to lead by example, setting the tone for balance and promoting a healthier approach to work.
6. Implement performance reviews with a focus on well-being: Conduct performance reviews that assess not only the output but also the well-being of employees. Ensure that employees feel valued for their contributions, not just for how much they work.
7. Promote workplace camaraderie: Build team cohesion through social and collaborative activities. When employees feel supported by their colleagues, it helps reduce the pressure to always be "on" and fosters a more connected and less stressful workplace.

Examples of companies moving away from hustle culture successfully

Several companies have successfully shifted away from hustle culture, prioritizing employee well-being and fostering a healthier work environment. Here are three notable examples:

1. Basecamp

Basecamp, a project management software company, has long championed a balanced work-life approach. They implemented a four-day workweek during the summer months, allowing employees to enjoy extended weekends. Additionally, Basecamp enforces a "no after-hours work" policy, ensuring that employees disconnect from work during personal time. This approach has led to increased employee satisfaction and productivity.

Source: Business Insider

2. Microsoft Japan

In August 2019, Microsoft Japan conducted a "4-day workweek challenge," closing the office every Friday for a month. The results were remarkable: productivity increased by 40% compared to the same period the previous year. This experiment demonstrated that reducing work hours could lead to higher efficiency and employee happiness.

Source: The Guardian

3. Salesforce

Salesforce, a leading cloud-based software company, has been proactive in combating hustle culture by promoting a culture of trust and flexibility. They offer a “People First” culture that promotes flexible work hours and remote work options, allowing employees to balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Salesforce also emphasizes the importance of mental health, providing resources and support to help employees manage stress and avoid burnout.

Source: Salesforce

How can mental health surveys help you spot and stop a toxic hustle culture at your work?

Mental health surveys are crucial tools that help organizations identify and address toxic hustle cultures within the workplace. By collecting valuable data on employee well-being and the overall workplace dynamics, these surveys provide actionable insights to foster a healthier work environment.

• Early detection of burnout: Mental health surveys help identify early signs of burnout by assessing stress levels, emotional well-being, and job satisfaction. Early detection allows employers to intervene before burnout escalates, offering timely support and resources.
• Understanding workplace culture: Surveys assess how employees perceive the overall culture by asking questions about workload, expectations, and available support. These insights help determine if there is a culture of constant hustle and allow organizations to address specific toxic cultural elements.
• Identifying high-stress areas: Mental health surveys pinpoint departments or roles facing high stress levels. This enables employers to allocate resources and create targeted strategies to alleviate stress in those areas, preventing burnout from spreading.
• Work-life balance evaluation: Surveys ask employees about work hours, flexibility, and their ability to disconnect, providing insight into the effectiveness of current work-life balance practices. This information allows organizations to refine policies and promote healthier work-life boundaries.

20 Mental health survey questions to ask your employees to tackle hustle culture

To tackle hustle culture ideology and promote a healthier work environment, it’s essential to understand the mental well-being of employees. One of the most effective ways to gather insights is through mental health surveys.

Here are 20 mental health hustle culture survey questions that can help employers assess the presence of hustle culture and its impact, formatted in a Likert scale (Strongly Agree, Agree, Neutral, Disagree, Strongly Disagree):

1. I feel like I am expected to work beyond my regular hours.
2. I often feel overwhelmed by my workload.
3. I can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
4. I receive adequate support from my manager when I feel overworked.
5. I feel pressure to constantly be busy, even if it’s not necessary.
6. I am able to disconnect from work during weekends or vacations.
7. I feel anxious about falling behind if I take time off.
8. My company values my mental health and well-being.
9. I often work through breaks or lunch hours to meet deadlines.
10. I feel guilty when I prioritize personal time over work.
11. There are realistic expectations regarding workload and deadlines in my role.
12. I frequently experience physical symptoms of stress, such as headaches or fatigue.
13. I feel that the culture of our company encourages a balance between work and personal life.
14. I feel supported by my colleagues in managing work-related stress.
15. I feel recognized for my efforts without having to overwork myself.
16. I often worry about meeting expectations or targets within the required time.
17. I feel that my work is valued regardless of how many hours I put in.
18. I feel encouraged to take mental health days when needed.
19. I feel that my personal life is often compromised due to work demands.
20. The company offers resources or programs to support employee mental health.

Conclusion

Hustle culture may seem like a badge of honor, but in reality, it leads to burnout, stress, and declining mental health among employees. A constantly overworked team isn’t a productive one—it’s an exhausted one.

That’s why organizations must prioritize well-being and balance. CultureMonkey helps companies do just that by providing real-time employee feedback and sentiment analysis to identify stressors before they escalate.

With customizable pulse surveys and AI-driven insights, HR teams can track workplace well-being and implement meaningful changes. By using CultureMonkey, organizations can shift away from hustle culture and create a healthier, more supportive work environment. Learn more at CultureMonkey.

FAQs

1. What is the opposite of hustle culture

The opposite of hustle culture is a "slow culture" or "restorative culture." It emphasizes balance, well-being, and sustainable productivity. Rather than glorifying overwork, it encourages employees to set boundaries, take regular breaks, and prioritize mental health. The focus is on long-term success through thoughtful work, fostering creativity and employee satisfaction without the constant pressure to perform.

2. Is Gen Z rejecting hustle culture?

Yes, Gen Z is increasingly rejecting hustle culture in favor of prioritizing mental health, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment. This generation values flexibility, creativity, and purpose over long hours and constant productivity. Many Gen Z employees seek workplaces that support their well-being, offering flexibility and recognizing the importance of rest to achieve sustainable success and happiness.

3. Is hustle culture still a thing?

Hustle culture is still prevalent, but its grip is loosening. While many individuals and companies continue to emphasize hard work and constant productivity, a growing movement is advocating for better work-life balance, mental health awareness, and sustainable work practices. More employees are rejecting burnout and embracing a healthier, more balanced approach to success.

4. What are the negatives of hustle culture?

The negatives of hustle culture include burnout, stress, and poor work-life balance. Employees often sacrifice their health, personal relationships, and well-being in the pursuit of constant productivity. The pressure to work long hours can lead to physical health issues, mental fatigue, and diminished job satisfaction. Over time, hustle culture can also stifle creativity and lead to high turnover rates.