Hustle Culture: The Price of Success? A 25-Year-Old Techie’s Wake-Up Call from Hospital Bed

Updated on: October 7, 2024 1:08 am GMT

In an era where the adage “work hard, play hard” has taken on a new meaning, the story of Kritarth Mittal, a 25-year-old entrepreneur from Mumbai, serves as a sobering reminder of the perils of hustle culture. Recently, Mittal was hospitalized due to health issues attributed to his relentless work lifestyle, illuminating the darker side of a narrative often glorified in the spheres of entrepreneurship and tech startups. He used his experience as a cautionary tale for others engrossed in the seductive allure of constant productivity, far too common in today’s hyper-competitive job market.

The Mixed Blessings of Hustle Culture

The term “hustle culture” has gained traction in recent years, promoting the idea that being constantly busy and sacrificing personal well-being for career success is a badge of honor. High-profile entrepreneurs, influencers, and motivational speakers often glamorize this lifestyle, encouraging young professionals to push their limits and forgo sleep and self-care to chase their dreams. However, the cost of this relentless pursuit can be tremendous, impacting not only physical health but also mental well-being.

Kritarth Mittal, the founder of the AI startup Soshals, shared his wake-up call with a poignant post on social media upon his hospitalization. In a brief but impactful message, he stressed that while hustle culture often leads to impressive achievements, it can just as easily lead to burnout, health issues, and long-term consequences. “Hustle culture comes with a cost,” he reminded his followers, directly calling them to reflect on their own work habits and lifestyle choices.

A Closer Look at Kritarth’s Journey

Kritarth’s journey into hustle culture began in his college days at the SRM Institute of Science and Technology in Chennai, where pulling all-nighters and neglecting his health became the norm. What started as a willingness to succeed quickly morphed into a grueling routine, leading to detrimental outcomes. Mittal admitted he frequently found himself working late into the night, often clocking in less than five hours of sleep and ignoring basic dietary needs. He noted, “I have struggled to maintain a healthy routine, diet, or sleep cycle. Hence, constant body pain, dark circles, etc.”

His experience echoes a broader trend among young professionals who often feel compelled to rush into the world of entrepreneurship, equating constant work with success. Whether it’s sacrificing sleep for late-night coding sessions or ignoring fitness to meet project deadlines, many fall into this exhausting trap with the hope of reaping the rewards of their hard work.

The Consequences of Overwork

The health repercussions of overwork and an erratic lifestyle are increasingly recognized in both scientific research and anecdotal evidence. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to several severe health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. This is a reality that Mittal had to confront, realizing that his lifestyle choices were not sustainable and needed a radical change.

Moreover, the stigma surrounding mental health in the entrepreneurial community compounds the problem. Often, admitting vulnerability or a need for help is perceived as weakness, discouraging many from seeking support when they need it most. This isolation can intensify the stress associated with high-pressure environments, making it even more critical for young entrepreneurs to talk openly about the consequences of hustle culture.

Finding Balance: A New Approach to Work

In the aftermath of his health scare, Kritarth Mittal has made a commitment to revamping his lifestyle. He acknowledged the difficulty in maintaining a healthy routine but expressed determination to change. “I have a diet plan and I’ve tried to set up a sleep cycle,” he noted, highlighting his awareness of the need for greater balance. His intention to take control of his health reflects a budding movement among professionals who are beginning to prioritize wellness in the face of relentless work demands.

A renewed focus on work-life balance encourages young entrepreneurs like Mittal to appreciate the importance of rest, exercise, and a well-rounded diet. It advocates the understanding that productivity does not necessitate sacrifice of health; rather, a sustainable approach often results in greater long-term success.

Strategies for Combatting Hustle Culture

For those navigating the treacherous waters of hustle culture, here are some strategies derived from Kritarth Mittal’s experience and the wisdom of those advocating for healthier lifestyles in professional spheres:

1. Set Boundaries: Define clear work hours and stick to them. After a certain time, allow yourself to disconnect from work, just as you would clock out of a traditional job.

1. Prioritize Sleep: Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Create a calming nighttime routine that encourages restful sleep, essential for brain function and overall health.

1. Fuel Your Body: An erratic diet can exacerbate fatigue and health problems. Invest time in meal planning to ensure you’re consuming nutritious foods.

1. Movement Matters: Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine, even if it’s just a short walk. Exercise is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental health.

1. Embrace Rest: Understand that rest is as productive as work. Allowing your mind and body to recuperate is vital for creativity and effectiveness.

1. Seek Support: Whether through therapy, mentorship, or peer discussions, reach out to others who understand the pressures you face. Open conversations about mental health can lessen the stigma and promote healing.

Conclusion

Kritarth Mittal’s story serves as an essential reminder of the need to reassess values in our professional lives. The call to hustle should never come at the expense of our health and well-being. As the narrative surrounding work-life balance gains momentum, it’s crucial for young professionals to recognize that true success encompasses a holistic approach—one that prioritizes mental, emotional, and physical health alongside professional achievements.

In a world where people often think working too hard is the best way to succeed, we need to change how we see success. Let’s listen to Kritarth and work towards a better balance in our jobs. We should care about our goals but also take care of ourselves.