How Gen Z is Turning Burnout into an Aesthetic
In today’s fast-paced world, burnout has become an all-too-familiar companion. But have you ever wondered why it now seems to be wrapped in a glitzy aesthetic package? According to Mid-day, from mood boards to motivational quotes, Gen Z is redefining how we view exhaustion and productivity.
The Pinterest Paradigm
For many young people, platforms like Pinterest serve as havens where the mundane is transformed into the aspirational. Arohi Chakravarty, a 19-year-old student, shares how she uses Pinterest to craft visually appealing mood boards, turning her study sessions into moments of tranquility. It’s more than just visual satisfaction; it’s about making tedious tasks feel like joyful, creative pursuits.
Fictional Role Models and Modern Expectations
Characters like Elle Woods from Legally Blonde and Rory Gilmore from Gilmore Girls have become academic icons. They embody the hustle mindset yet often blur the lines between inspiration and toxic productivity. Eva Joseph, another young student, looks up to these characters, recognizing a potential downside—romanticized overwork masquerading as dedication.
Burnout vs. Motivation: A Delicate Balance
Psychiatrist Dr. Sanjay Kumavat explains the physical fallout of burnout, emphasizing fatigue, irritability, and harmful coping mechanisms. Meanwhile, Samson Carvalho, a psychology teacher, notes how cultural pride in relentless endurance often leads us to ignore the signs of burnout, considering it an achievement rather than a warning signal.
The Fine Line of Influence
Social media platforms, particularly Pinterest and Instagram, heighten this dynamic. They seamlessly tie the idea of hustle with aspirational lifestyles, sometimes blurring the boundaries between healthy motivation and detrimental workaholic tendencies. The likes and shares validate not only the content but the behavior it represents.
Unlearning the Hustle
Aditya Vajandar, a college student, reflects on the challenge of associating rest with laziness, an enduring norm he’s determined to dismantle. It’s about redefining success and realizing the value of balance, mental clarity, and holistic well-being.
Navigating Burnout with Care
Chakravarty suggests that while shared experiences can foster understanding, they can also prolong a perilous cycle of burnout. It’s crucial to distinguish between shared support and perpetuating harmful stereotypes about productivity.
Gen Z stands at a crossroads where aesthetics and reality intersect. It’s a reminder that life isn’t merely a vision board but a series of thoughtful choices about how we approach work and rest.
