Why ‘Doing It All’ Doesn’t Work (And Why We’re Over It)
1. It’s an impossible standard.
No one can be on top of their game in every single aspect of life. The pressure to do so leads to exhaustion, anxiety, and a feeling of never being enough. You can’t be your best self if you’re constantly comparing yourself to an ideal that doesn’t exist.
2. Mental health suffers.
We’re not robots. Our brains need downtime, creativity, and space to recharge. Constantly chasing after the next big thing—be it in your career or your personal life—leaves little room for self-care. Guess what? You can’t pour from an empty cup. Your mental health and emotional well-being are not optional.
3. Relationships get neglected.
When you’re spending every waking moment trying to do everything, there’s barely any time left for meaningful connections. Whether it’s time with your partner, friends, or even yourself, relationships can take a backseat when you’re caught in the hustle culture. That’s not the way to thrive.
4. You’re always ‘on’.
The pressure to be constantly active, constantly productive, constantly doing more, means you’re never really off. Work emails, social media updates, fitness goals, social engagements—there’s always something. It’s like you’re running a marathon that never ends.
5. Success is defined by external validation.
The “Girlboss” ethos teaches that success comes from external sources: promotions, followers, likes, and approval from others. But true success is about internal satisfaction. What makes you feel fulfilled? Not everyone’s definition of success should look the same.
Rewriting the Rulebook: Doing It Your Way
So, how do we move away from this burnout-inducing ‘Girlboss’ mentality and find a more sustainable path? It’s time to rewrite the rulebook. Here’s how:
1. Embrace Imperfection.
There is no such thing as perfect, and that’s okay. In fact, embracing your imperfections makes you real. Ditch the comparison game and accept that some days, you’ll just survive, not thrive. And that’s fine.
2. Prioritise What Matters Most.
It’s easy to get lost in the whirlwind of responsibilities and obligations. Start prioritising what really matters—your mental health, your loved ones, and your passions. Sometimes, it’s okay to say no to a project or cancel plans in order to rest. You are not a robot, and your worth isn’t measured by how much you can do.
3. Redefine Success.
Success isn’t just about work or productivity. It’s about finding joy, peace, and satisfaction in your life. It’s about doing what feels right for you, not what society tells you should feel right. Focus on balance—career success, yes, but also personal growth, time with loved ones, and moments of rest.
4. Let Go of Perfectionism.
We’re all guilty of trying to live up to the image of the “perfect” woman—polished, poised, and putting on a happy face at all times. But perfection is an illusion. Life is messy. So, let yourself be messy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, take breaks, or let things slide.
5. Celebrate Rest.
Rest isn’t laziness. It’s necessary. You don’t have to be “on” 24/7 to prove your worth. The Girlboss model glorified hustle culture, but the real secret to longevity is balance. Make time for naps, yoga, long walks, or simply zoning out for a bit—without feeling guilty about it.
