From TikTok to LinkedIn, there’s a message that seems to be everywhere: if you’re not working 24/7, you’re falling behind. The rise of “hustle culture”—the idea that constant productivity equals success—has been marketed to young people as the only way to make it in a competitive world. But for Gen Z, the pressure to do it all is starting to do more harm than good.
“We’re the generation that’s grown up online. We’ve watched influencers launch brands from their bedrooms and 20-somethings become millionaires off side hustles.”said Danae Daniels a senior Broadcast Journalism. In many ways, it’s inspiring.
But somewhere along the way, being “booked and busy” became a badge of honor—and burnout became a lifestyle. The problem? Burnout isn’t glamorous.
It’s exhaustion, anxiety, and losing touch with yourself in the name of success. Studies have shown that Gen Z is the most stressed-out generation to date, with record levels of anxiety and depression. And while there are many factors at play— economic uncertainty, social media, climate fears—hustle culture only adds fuel to the fire.
It tells us that rest is lazy. That if you’re not monetizing your hobbies, you’re wasting time. That every moment of your life should be optimized for productivity.
But that mindset isn’t sustainable—and it definitely isn’t healthy. What we actually need is balance. We need to stop glorifying the grind and start honoring our limits.
Rest isn’t a reward you earn after overworking yourself—it’s a basic human need. Creativity, clarity, and confidence all come from slowing down, not speeding up. “Success doesn’t look the same for everyone.
Some people launch a business and others, it’s living a peaceful life with time for art, friends, and joy. I like that Neither is better than the other everyone has their own lane and destiny to fulfill!” said Jordan Mongo a senior Broadcast Journalism major. Unfortunately, hustle culture tries to squeeze us all into the same mold, ignoring the value of rest, reflection, and individuality.
As Gen Z steps into adulthood, we have a chance to rewrite the rules. We can choose to build a world that values being as much as doing. One where ambition and well-being don’t have to be at odds.
Where we celebrate hard work—but also celebrate saying, “I need a break.” Because at the end of the day, life isn’t a race. And sometimes, slowing down is the most radical thing you can do.
