- 29 Oct, 2023
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- 4 Mins Read
Work Less, Live More – The Recipe For Modern Grind
In the tech nologically evolving era of Artificial intelligence, of hustling, of fast fashion, of influencer marketing, of moonlighting, the notion of “Work less, live more”, might appear arguably unconventional or atypical. We are living in the epoch where overworking or being busy is glorified and perceived as the “badge of honor” by the lion’s share. Millions of Indians, Americans & Gen-Zer’s have lost control over the basic rhythm of everyday lives. Academic competitiveness is witnessed in young minds from the moment they step into the schools & with the hustle culture in trend, we are constantly pushed to outperform at everything we get our hands into. Growing up with questions asked at every stages of our lives: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “What next” etc. A report published by moneycontrol stats, an alarming 76% of Indian workers feel stressed as of Aug 2023.
Now, it’s time to question the narrative & mindset we are conditioned to internalize & believe – why is this lifestyle the new normal? Are we really benefiting from being hyper-productive?
Burnout & Mental Health – The Aftereffect of Hustle
Since the pandemic, there has been tremendous advancements in the digital space. Influencer culture has become an increasingly prevalent phenomenon with the rise of social media platforms and the growing popularity, which in turn mushroomed the hustle culture. Hustle culture is the cumulative drive to work harder, faster, stronger. Every. Single. Day. The Hustle culture does not take breaks even when sick. The hustle culture does not sleep. Hustle culture works day in and day out, pushing to maximize all 1440 minutes every day.
“In a world that is inundated with distractions, busy-ness, and addiction to hustling, there is merit in taking a step back and looking at the big picture”– Celinne Da Costa, Forbes
Resuming work post-pandemic, we may have frequently encountered a few common phrases from our colleagues, friends, partners or near & dear ones. There is a good chance that some of us have experienced it personally.
– I haven’t slept for the “X” days
– I feel so exhausted by all the responsibilities (work, parenting, family, life)
– I skipped my breakfast/lunch/dinner
– I spend “X” hours of my day in traffic/commute
– I have been partying or consuming alcohol for the past “X” days
– I have been mindlessly hustling for the past X months/years without break All the above aforementioned phrases lead us to burnout, physical & mental health issues along with stress. So, my question here is, what’s the alternative to all this endless rise-and-grind?
Downshifting – Break-free from the Grind
The very first time we heard of the downshifting concept, it sounded strange. Work less & live better for a more fulfilling life? That’s crazy! Or is it? The more I discovered about downshifting, the more sense it made… until it seemed obvious! Living first and then earning afterwards instead of the other way around allows you to build a more robust framework for sustainable living and long-term satisfaction. In the end, isn’t that what we all want?
Here are a few steps towards attaining a more fulfilling, a work less, live more way of life – the way to semi-retirement.
1. Earn less, spend less, emit & degrade less – a minimalistic life. Less is the new luxury of more.
2. Aiming more in the direction of – No credit cards, less EMI’s & lesser debts. A debt free life is the new rich.
3. Planning short & long term breaks from work, life & responsibilities.
4. Indulge in nothingness – let me as you a question here, when was the last time you did “nothing” absolutely nothing? Say for example silent walking with no music, sitting on the public park bench and observing people & kids around, gazing at the passing traffic? This reminds me of the famous dialogue from one of hindi classic movies “Yeh jawani hai deewani” starring Deepika Padukone & Ranbir Kapoor. While Kabir (Ranbir Kapoor) is globetrotting for work, his boss questions him “What you looking at Kabir?” In response, Kabir says “Waqt ko guzarte” as simple yet profound.
5. Lastly, Exercise. Meditate. Read. Travel. Indulge in hobbies. Live more offline – in real world.
Continue the Journey
Stepping out of the wheel requires courage. It’s hard to say “No” to something many people are unaware they’re saying “Yes” to. When the world around you is embracing & glorifying hustling, you will encounter resistance in the strangest of ways once you start taking baby steps towards your new lifestyle. Consider gradually working less or build up something on the side. It’s such a simple concept that it flies directly below the radar for many people. Follow your heart and interests and invest in experiences. Doing that isn’t a distraction from “real life”. It is real life, and it’s meant to be enjoyed! A dynamic journey filled with adventure and self-discovery awaits you as you downshift in your life.
– An Artist Muse on Canvas
