Do you believe that it is important to work hard?

Hustle culture is a way of thinking. It means that you must
work hard and long to reach your professional goals. This idea is popular, even though it can be bad for your relationships, physical health, and mental health.

Do you want to know if you or your workplace is practicing hustle culture? Here are some signs to look out for:

• You or your workplace follow traditional workplace values.
• You or your workplace value working long hours.
• You or your workplace don’t take breaks.
• You or your workplace don’t take time off.
• You or your workplace don’t prioritize self-care.
• Not leaving work until the boss says it’s okay.
• Being the first person to arrive and the last one to leave the office.
• Always being available to work, even during the night and on weekends.
• Not taking any days off from work.

In some workplaces, it is seen as a positive to work too much.

Moving to a new country and getting a job can be difficult. So, when we get hired, we try to do our best. This is a good attitude, but it can be too much. It can cause job stress and burn out.

Recently, people have realized that hustle culture is not healthy. We need to find a balance between work and life. A lot of people are now trying to do this.
 

What does “working smarter” mean?

The phrase “working smarter, not harder” means finding ways to use your energy and time at work more efficiently. This can help you finish tasks faster. It also gives you more time to do things that make you happy outside of work.

Why is it important to work smarter?

It has many advantages. Working smarter can help you:

• Do more in less time
• Be more productive
• Do better quality work
• Enjoy your job more

7 ways to work smarter

1. Prioritize and plan

   It’s important to plan out your tasks. Make a list of what you need to do each day. Make sure it is realistic and achievable. Focus on three to five tasks that are most important. These tasks should be related to your main responsibilities. They can also be tasks that help other people or have short deadlines.

2. Set boundaries and communicate them

   It’s great to help your teammates. But if it will keep you from meeting your deadlines, it’s okay to say no. Let them know when you can help.

3. Take breaks

   Breaks help you reset your brain and be more efficient. Take 10-30 minutes to rest, have coffee, stretch, or meditate. Use an app to remind you.

4. Don’t wait

   Break big jobs into small, manageable chunks. Start with the simplest task. You’ll be motivated to do more once you’ve accomplished something.

5. Ask for help

   Ask for help early so you can get the support you need.

6. Use productivity hacks

   Organize your surroundings, group similar tasks, and use apps and tools.

7. End your day

   Evaluate how your day went and celebrate your achievements. This will help motivate you for the next day.

 
Sources: 17 ways to work smarter, not harder in your career, Jamie Birt, indeed; and Hustle Culture: How “Everyday I’m hustling” became a mantra, Martina Mascali, Monster. Accessed November 14, 2022.