Over the past two decades, hustle culture—characterized by relentless ambition and glorification of overworking—has gripped India, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. While this overarching set of beliefs, attitudes, and values associated with hustle culture such as emphasis on ambition, overworking, and the pursuit of success has fueled economic growth and personal achievements, it has also led to a surge in burnout, dissatisfaction, and declining mental health.
What is Hustle Culture, and Why is it Prevalent?
Hustle culture is rooted in the belief that constant work and productivity are necessary for success. This mindset, popularized globally by social media, startup culture, and economic shifts, has deeply influenced Indian professionals and students.
- Cultural Context: The rapid growth of India’s IT and startup sectors in the early 2000s made hustling synonymous with ambition and upward progression.
- Economic Pressures: India’s growing middle class, along with the competitive job market, has pushed many individuals to adopt a “work hard, get ahead” mentality.
- Digital Influence: The “always on” culture, fueled by the fast-paced nature of online platforms, the startup ecosystem, and a 24/7 global economy, reinforces the belief that constant work and relentless effort are the keys to personal and professional advancement. The digital landscape amplifies this mindset by highlighting stories of overnight success and the glorification of busy lifestyles.
The Cost of Hustle Culture in Numbers
1. Burnout and Mental Health Metrics
- Burnout Rates: A 2022 survey by Deloitte reported that 47% of Indian Gen Zs feel stressed all or most of the time, compared to 46% globally. For millennials, 43% in India report feeling stressed all or most of the time, compared to 38% globally.
- Mental Health: A 2021 study focusing on Indian IT professionals reported that about one-quarter of participants experienced moderate to severe stress, anxiety, and depression.
2. Work-Life Balance Disparities
- Time Spent Working: According to the International Labour Organization (ILO) Report, Indian professionals worked an average of 48 hours per week in 2022, one of the highest globally.
- Family Time Reduction: Recent studies also revealed that Indian families spend less time together compared to two decades ago.
Generational Divide: Millennials and Gen Z vs. Gen X
- Millennials and Gen Z:
- Heavily influenced by global trends and digital platforms, they embrace side hustles and freelance work.
- 68% of Gen Z professionals in India reported feeling pressure to prove themselves constantly. (LinkedIn Workplace Confidence Index, 2022).
- Gen X and Baby Boomers:
- Prioritize stability and traditional work hours.
- Older professionals expressed concern about younger generations losing work-life balance.
The Double-Edged Sword: Pros and Cons of Hustle Culture
Pros
- Economic Growth: Hustle culture has driven India’s GDP, particularly in sectors like IT and e-commerce.
- Personal Achievement: Many professionals have achieved rapid career growth through relentless effort.
Cons
- Health Costs: The rise in lifestyle disorders like hypertension and diabetes correlates with high-stress jobs.
- Diminished Fulfillment: A Gallup global workplace well-being survey, as reported by the Economic Times of India, found that only 14% of Indian workers feel fulfilled, indicating that 86% are struggling or suffering at work.
Mindfulness: The Antidote to Hustle Culture
1. Importance of Intentional Living
- Mental Health Benefits: Mindfulness practices like meditation, mindful living, mindful eating, journaling and self-reflection reduce stress.
- Workplace Flexibility: A Microsoft survey found that 74% of Indian workers desire more flexible remote work options, with 73% also seeking increased in-person team interactions.
2. Small, Actionable Steps
- Tech-Free Hours: Encourage individuals to set boundaries with devices.
- Value-Based Goals: Shift focus from quantity to quality of achievements.
Conclusion
The rise of hustle culture in India has significantly shaped the country’s workforce and economy. However, its detrimental impact on mental health and relationships underscores the need for a balanced approach. By adopting mindfulness and prioritizing intentional living, India can harness the benefits of hustle culture while mitigating its costs.
Call to Action
Reflect on your daily schedule. Are you hustling at the expense of your well-being? Take a moment to reassess your priorities and embrace a mindful approach to success.
