In today’s fast-moving world of social media and demanding workplaces, hustle culture and the It Girl trends have taken centre stage. With long work hours, sleek corporate outfits, oversized leather bags, and enormous water bottles in tow, we can’t help but ask: are these trends romanticising hard work and creating more driven communities, or are they just another capitalistic wave?

A Trip Back in Time

Let’s take a quick trip back to the early 2000s when things felt a little less hectic and inflation wasn’t such a hot topic. Have you ever asked your parents how they balanced work and life? Millennials, for instance, are often praised for their dedication and strong work ethic. It’s almost like humans are naturally programmed to strive for purpose and success, even when the pressures weren’t as intense as they are today.

Gen Z in the Workplace

Fast forward to Gen Z, and you’ll see a shift. For many, a job is simply a way to make money—a 9-5 routine with no significant milestones or grand ambitions. But the hustle and It Girl trends came along to add a bit of excitement and give people a sense of purpose. Journaling and planning future goals have become this generation’s way of creating a meaningful career, as long as it doesn’t become all-consuming.

The Balancing Act of Ambition

Navigating a world where It Girls and YouTubers call 16-hour workdays and mastering German on the side as a hustle is no easy feat. Yet, while we know true talent is nurtured through discipline and consistency, it’s important to have some downtime to avoid burnout.

Romanticising your life is great, but setting clear boundaries and prioritising your health should always come first.