More reasons to break the chains of hustle culture

When I made the leap from law to coaching, it was driven by my desire to pursue something I genuinely loved. However, little did I know that the culture of my previous career had deeply ingrained in me the idea of being tied to a desk all day.

As I began my new life, I automatically fell into the same pattern. Getting up and sitting at a desk, working from 8.30 am to at least 5.30 pm every day, even when I didn't have much on my plate.

It took me several weeks to realise that I had the freedom to approach my work and life differently. I was sitting there, bored, restless and feeling like I had to stay there feeling bored and restless when all of a sudden I realised I was my own jailer!

I logged off and went for a walk. It was great.

In the pursuit of a more fulfilling life, one of the crucial tips I can offer is to challenge the beliefs and norms that have been instilled in you throughout your life. Ask yourself whether these beliefs truly align with your values and aspirations. Are they serving you well?

If not, be open to re-evaluating and adjusting them to better suit your needs. Breaking free from ingrained habits can be challenging, but the rewards of living life on your own terms are worth it.

In my case, I embraced episodic work. Allowing myself to take breaks and pursuing other interests enriched both my personal life and my career. By challenging the conventional notion of work and finding a balance that resonated with me, I discovered a newfound sense of contentment and joy. I am convinced that if I were to work an extra 15-20 hours a week my productivity would go down.

We are seeing that more and more with the advent of the 4-day work week delivering BETTER wellbeing with either no drop or an IMPROVEMENT in productivity.

I realise I am fortunate, as owner of my own business, to set my own hours. But as you get more senior in your own organisation, it’s important to take a long, hard look at the prevailing culture and habits and question how many of them might be changed for the better – or whether you could just step outside them and do things your way.

Achieving a fulfilling life isn't about sacrificing everything for work.

Are you being your own jailer? Break out! It’s more fun on the outside.

Are you ready?

Until next week,

Take care of yourself and others,

Madeleine

PS If you’d like me to work with you as you explore and let go of some beliefs about work that are keeping you unhappy, let me know and please share with anyone you think may benefit.

I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.

1. Want to find out more? Send me a note and let me know.

2. Feeling unfulfilled, overworked or unclear about what next? Work with me to identify what is holding you back and make a plan for more powerfully and enjoyably pursuing goals that matter to you. Contact me to find out more.

3. Join my list to receive regular articles and insights, early news about programs and offers, and respect for your inbox.

4. Follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected.

5. Prefer to talk? Choose a time and it will drop right into my schedule.

Click below to share this on your socials…