For entreprenuers, hustle culture is the lifestyle of someone who continues to work and only rests for a short time. This is done because those who follow the culture feel that doing so will make them successful.

But for the employed according to Talk Space hustle culture describes a common, modern workplace environment that emphasises hard work and long hours as the key to success. It’s become increasingly popular recently, with many companies encouraging their employees to put in extra effort and work hours for better results.

However, regardless of context hustle culture is quite harmful and in many cases counter productive.

‘New year, new me’ is the mindset most people adopt at the beginning of each year as they set their goals for what they want to achieve before the end of the year. Some set financial goals, while others aim to lose weight, which is why gym subscriptions are at their highest at this time of the year.

It is completely normal to set these goals, and doing so can be a good thing. However, it is important to approach them with the right mindset. If you set these goals irrationally, you risk setting yourself up for failure. Initially, you might be highly motivated, but soon that motivation may wane (exhaust), and you could face a significant downturn. Therefore, as I mentioned, having the right mindset when setting your goals is crucial.

Losing weight, making money, getting married, and starting a business are all wonderful goals, and you should pursue them. However, before you embark on these pursuits, you must first ensure you have the right attitude and mentality. Achieving these goals will not be easy, and you need to be spiritually, emotionally, physically, and mentally prepared for the challenges that may come your way.

Hustle culture encourages us to pursue our goals, but it can also be toxic. Many young people set goals that others did not achieve until they were in their 50s. Assess your capacity and set realistic goals; avoid aiming for the impossible. For instance, if you want to increase your income this year, set a goal to earn 5-10% more than you currently do, rather than aiming for a 50% increase.

If your goal is to lose weight, don’t just join the gym unless you are willing to put in the effort. Often, it’s not just about how frequently you go to the gym but also about your eating habits and behaviour at home and elsewhere. Reducing your calorie intake and increasing your daily physical activity are good first steps. The gym is a bonus, unless you are obese, need it for other reasons, or your doctor has recommended it. Good discipline is most important.

I have gained a few more kilos than I intended. While I am happy with my body, I am unhappy with some of the limits I have. Therefore, I have decided to cut out certain foods and drinks and reduce my calorie intake. Although I have always been an active person, it is still possible to get carried away, even when in good health. Instead of committing to jogging 10 km a day, I have chosen to lose the excess weight by addressing it in the same manner I gained it: by staying active while carefully monitoring my food intake.

Instead of putting undue strain on yourself, healthily limit yourself, because you are only human. If you are trying to create a second income stream, whether through starting a new business, taking on a side hustle, or getting a second job, make sure to choose something you know you can handle. For example, if your current job is physically demanding, avoid taking on another physically demanding job, as this could lead to burnout.

Instead, choose something that fits your schedule and does not harm your health. Many social media gurus boast about working two jobs or waking up at 5 am and sleeping at midnight, which is unhealthy. As humans, there is only so much we can handle. As a Christian, I would recommend seeking a relationship with God. Having Him by your side can help you manage your struggles more effectively.

One thing you need to understand is that God is not a genie that you approach for personal or selfish reasons. Rather, you come to Him because you recognise that you are a sinner in need of salvation. When you obey Him, He can provide for all your needs and more.

“Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. - Matthew 6:31-32

But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. - Matthew 6:33

There is nothing wrong with seeking advice on how to succeed in your goals, but make sure that the advice is sound. You can work as hard as you want and still fail dismally (I learned this the hard way last year). Avoid taking advice that could ruin your life; be wise and smart in your choices.

It is vain for you to rise up early, To sit up late, To eat the bread of sorrows; For so He gives His beloved sleep. - Psalms 127:2

About Daniel Hebron

Daniel Hebron founded Boot Motivation in 2022 with the aim of inspiring and empowering society through Christian values and beliefs, creating a platform that promotes faith, personal growth, and positive change.