Why People Don’t Want to Work 40-Hour Weeks (Part 2)

The Rise of Hustle Culture—And Why People Are Finally Saying No What Is Hustle Culture?

Hustle culture is the belief that success requires constant work, long hours, and personal sacrifice. It glorifies overwork, making people feel like they must always be “grinding” to get ahead. In this culture, rest is seen as laziness, and self-worth is often tied to productivity.

For years, hustle culture told us that success meant working longer, harder, and sacrificing personal time. But today, people are waking up to the truth that true success involves:

Why People Don’t Want to Work 40 hr Weeks

✔ Mental and physical health ✔ Meaningful relationships ✔ Time for hobbies, travel, and personal growth

Remote and Flexible Work: A Path Forward

Before the pandemic, remote work was rare. Now, it’s a fundamental expectation in many industries. Research shows that flexible work arrangements can:

• Improve productivity and job satisfaction
• Reduce stress and work-related exhaustion
• Increase work-life balance and overall well-being

A study by Choudhury et al. (2021) found that employees in “work-from-anywhere” settings showed increased performance, partially due to better autonomy and improved work-life balance.

The takeaway? People no longer need to sacrifice mental health to adhere to a rigid 40-hour schedule. Flexible and remote work options allow them to build careers that fit their lives—rather than the other way around.

What Employers Can Do to Support the Shift in the Workforce

As the traditional 40-hour workweek becomes increasingly unsustainable for many, employers have a unique opportunity to support this cultural shift while fostering a more engaged, productive, and mentally healthy workforce. Adapting to the changing needs of employees can lead to improved job satisfaction, increased retention, and higher productivity in the long run.

1. Embrace Flexible Work Arrangements

Employers can offer remote, hybrid, or flexible work options that allow employees to manage their schedules more autonomously. Research shows that when employees have control over when and where they work, they experience less stress and increased job satisfaction. This flexibility can be an essential factor in attracting and retaining top talent.

2. Focus on Results, Not Hours

Moving away from the traditional mindset that equates productivity with hours worked can have a powerful impact. Shifting the focus to output—results, creativity, and quality of work—rather than time spent in the office allows employees to work in a way that suits their personal lives and mental health needs. Encouraging a culture of accountability based on achievements, not hours, will help reduce burnout and improve performance.

3. Promote Mental Health and Well-Being

Employers can provide comprehensive mental health support, such as wellness programs, therapy stipends, or access to counseling. By encouraging employees to take regular breaks, use their PTO, and set boundaries between work and personal life, companies show they value their employees’ overall well-being. A culture that prioritizes mental health not only reduces stress but also fosters trust and loyalty.

4. Redefine Success and Work-Life Balance

Success in today’s workforce is no longer solely measured by how many hours employees put in but by how well they balance their personal and professional lives. Employers can redefine success by setting realistic expectations and workload limits. Recognizing and rewarding quality work over the number of hours worked allows employees to thrive without sacrificing their health or personal time.

By adopting these strategies, employers can help facilitate a healthier, more resilient workforce that supports both the well-being of employees and the long-term success of the organization.

It’s Okay to Want More Than Just Work

If you’ve been feeling burnt out, unfulfilled, or stuck in a job that doesn’t bring you joy—you’re not alone. The world is changing, and more people than ever are choosing to put their mental health and happiness first.

At Blue Skies Brain Health, we specialize in holistic therapy to help you navigate burnout, work stress, and major life transitions. If you’re ready to explore what a fulfilling career and life could look like for you, we’re here to help.

Ready to prioritize your mental health? Book a free consultation today!

References

Choudhury, P., Foroughi, C., & Larson, B. (2021). Work-from-anywhere: The productivity effects of geographic flexibility. Strategic Management Journal. Retrieved from https://sms.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smj.3251