Are You at Risk of Dying a Victim of Hustle Culture?

When I was asked an important question, “what brings me joy,” I immediately thought I had the perfect answer. “I love being creative; that’s what brings me joy.” I reflected on the times I networked with other creatives, had mid-day strategy sessions at coffee shops, and photographed intelligent influencers. I was satisfied with my answer, but not for long.

When I looked deeper within myself and inspected more of these creative moments, I realized that being creative did not bring me joy on every occasion. There were times I had to leave birthday parties for a photoshoot and evenings I spent in my office editing images or videos while my wife and children were laughing in the other room. Occasions when I missed interacting with others in a public setting and mingling at a party by my wife’s side because I was in charge of the music and other media for the evening.

I started to look at what I thought brought me joy and subtracted the times I felt it disconnected me, and my answer changed. This moment of reflection and introspection helped me identify my most profound joy, my family. I started to look at the numbers, comparing how much time I spent with my family, and realized I had become a victim of hustle culture.

Hustle culture is this mentality to forsake all others to accomplish your professional goals and get to the money. Far too often, the goal is to make more money for your family so you can become financially free, but at what cost. I have a great family that is relatively understanding about my goals. Whenever I had to go anywhere to do anything, no one ever complained, but I couldn’t help but feel like I was missing something.

When I research other very successful people at the top of their careers or retired, many share the same regret. They wish they had spent more time with their family. I realized I had similar feelings, but I was young enough to change how I did things to bring both of my passions together and ultimately become fulfilled. I decided to integrate my creative life more seamlessly into my family life.

I decided to take the “truck” approach and not the “sports car” approach.

The Sports Car Lifestyle