Nigerians are no strangers to the grind. It’s in the techpreneurs building apps in Yaba, the market women selling wares in Balogun, and the corporate executives juggling multiple side gigs. But as much as hustle culture drives our ambition, it begs the question: at what cost?
We live in a society that glorifies busyness. The more packed your schedule, the more worthy you seem. Phrases like “No time to rest” and “Sleep is for the weak” are often seen as badges of honour. However, beneath the glitz of “soft life” Instagram posts and endless productivity is a quiet epidemic of burnout, anxiety, and exhaustion. So how do we maintain the hustle while protecting our well-being? The answer lies in finding balance.
The Cost of the Grind
Femi is a 29-year-old digital marketer who spends his weekdays managing clients, his evenings running an e-commerce store, and his weekends at networking events. “I haven’t had a full night’s sleep in months,” he admits. “It’s like I’m constantly on a treadmill I can’t get off.”
Femi’s story isn’t unique. A 2021 study by the World Health Organization found that nearly 60% of Nigerians suffer from work-related stress, with many not realising they’re on a dangerous path until it’s too late. High blood pressure, mental health issues, and strained relationships are just some of the tolls this lifestyle takes.
The truth is, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Constantly running on fumes isn’t sustainable. So, how can we thrive without sacrificing our well-being?
How to Find Balance
Redefine Success
Success isn’t just about the car you drive or the house you own; it’s about how fulfilled you feel in your life. Instead of chasing external validation, focus on personal growth, meaningful relationships, and your overall happiness. Ask yourself: what truly makes me feel accomplished?
Set Boundaries
Saying “no” is a superpower in the hustle economy. Not every opportunity is for you, and that’s okay. Learn to prioritise tasks and avoid overcommitting yourself. Whether it’s limiting work calls after hours or carving out time for rest, boundaries are non-negotiable.
Embrace Rest as a Strategy
Rest isn’t laziness; it’s a vital part of productivity. Many Nigerians feel guilty for taking breaks, but rest allows your body and mind to recharge, improving focus and creativity. Consider adopting practices like power naps, regular vacations, or even daily scheduling a few hours of downtime.
Cultivate Hobbies Outside Work
When was the last time you did something purely for fun? Whether it’s playing football, learning to cook, or taking up photography, hobbies remind us that life is not just about work. They provide an outlet to decompress and reconnect with yourself.
Build a Support System
The journey to balance isn’t one you should take alone. Lean on your friends, family, or mentors for support. Sometimes, just talking to someone about your struggles can lighten the load. Surround yourself with people who encourage you to prioritise self-care.
The Quiet Revolution
There’s a shift happening among Nigeria’s younger generation. While our parents were content with grinding in silence, millennials and Gen Z are boldly embracing self-care and work-life balance. Influencers are vocal about the importance of mental health, and the rise of wellness communities in cities like Abuja and Lagos signals a growing demand for balance.
Tech innovations are also helping. Apps like Calm and Headspace are gaining traction among young people seeking mindfulness, while the flexibility of remote work has allowed more people to manage their schedules better. Slowly but surely, we’re redefining the hustle.
Finding Balance is a Journey
The hustle culture isn’t inherently bad. It has given us some of the world’s most innovative minds and resilient spirits. But balance is key.
The ultimate goal is to build a life where ambition and peace coexist. It’s about acknowledging that while the hustle can be fulfilling, rest and joy are just as important. As you strive to “secure the bag,” remember to pause, breathe, and celebrate how far you’ve come. After all, life isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the journey.
