“It’s time for you to move, realizing that the thing you are seeking is also seeking you.”
— Iyanla Vanzant
“Rise and grind” has become a staple phrase amongst the Black community with the intention to remind us all to be the best version of ourselves. Work and your latest accomplishments seem to be the only things that one can “brag” about. Upward mobility in career and socioeconomic status are the parameters on whether you are doing well in life. Grind culture warps our idea of what success, happiness, and fulfillment mean. The reality is that we all define success differently but grind culture tends to make us forget. Self-reflection is key as grind culture makes us forget our own values and purpose. It’s easy to find yourself overworked but simultaneously feeling like your not doing enough when you’re trying to keep up with the majority.
Check out the three best practices to combat grind culture below:
1. TAKE A SOCIAL MEDIA BREAK
We all love social media as it's a form of escapism from responsibilities throughout the day. It’s also a place that can be easily used to compare our lives to others. From LinkedIn filled with career growth stories and Instagram showing your peers enjoying a family vacation in Mexico, it can leave you feeling unsatisfied. This is because grind culture makes you feel that you are undeserving of those moments. Grind culture feeds off the idea that if you work hard enough, you too can enjoy moments like that. However, it’s important to remember that social media platforms are places to share highlights not pitfalls. Setting boundaries with how much social media you consume is essential to not being a victim of grind culture.
2. REDEFINE YOUR DEFINITION OF SUCCESS
Grind culture feeds into the narrative that you have to accomplish more than everyone. The reality is that the idea of success looks different for everyone. Career accomplishments can be a source of fulfillment, but so can spending time with the people you love, traveling the world and creating more time to enjoy your favorite hobby. It’s up to you to redefine your idea of success. Take some time and ask yourself the questions below:
What brings you fulfillment?
What does success look and feel like to you?
What would you like to do if you had more free time?
Asking these questions allows you to move through life confidently and intentionally.
3. PRIORITIZE REST
The concept of working hard and enjoying the fruits of your labor is nice in theory but not well-practiced. The idea of work/life balance can feel close to impossible. It’s important that you prioritize rest while you accomplish your dreams. The hustle and bustle of grind culture will make you feel depleted in the end so feel comfortable with the idea of rest. Grind culture can start to impede on your mental, physical and emotional health. Rest can allow you to recharge and take a break from always feeling like something needs to be done.
Grind culture is nothing more than a mental trap. It can leave you feeling like no matter what you do it's just not quite enough. Don’t fall for the trap but instead allow yourself time to rest, speak with gratitude, and trust in your path.
Make sure to join our community and check out our Self-Love Workbook and Intention Setting Guide.