Good morning N, Crowd!
Online trends depicting morning routines have been roaming around the internet since 2020; a time when many were struggling to remain productive and fulfilled during the pandemic. However, online influencers have since expanded from online workouts and remote working habits. Recently, On TikTok the “5-9PM after my 9-5PM” productivity trend has been taking success to a whole new level. This trend often encourages viewers to pickup a side hustle alongside a full time job. Even more alarming to me is the 5-9AM BEFORE my 9-5PM! When are we sleeping!
As a recent college graduate, I have struggled with burnout while working at bars and attending morning classes simultaneously. That was more like my “8 PM-3 AM routine” after my class schedule- eek! There is so much pressure to maximize your time, especially if you are told that is what everyone else is doing. Fear of falling behind and competing with the idea that there is always someone who is doing more than you is frightening. In this economy, it feels like there is no space for error. One of my fellow “Gen Z-ers” at Just N Life writes boldly about Why Gen Z Seems to be Struggling in the Career Department. At the end -or beginning of the day- success is not dependent on maintaining any type of high-maintenance lifestyle. It’s about balance, persistence, and maintaining well-being.
The “Perfect Life” Performance
Some find early morning routines inspiring to watch. However, social media sets a precedent for the new normal. Teddy Amenabar, writer for The Washington Post, shares the story of an influencer who admits that his viral morning routine on TikTok (with over 1.5 million views) is not how he lives his everyday life. Dayo Okuboyejo, who resides in Philadelphia, says his 5 a.m. morning routine “burnt him out eventually.” The 24 year-old’s viral video consisted of vitamins, skin cleansers, and productivity planning that he claims helps him prepare for the day. Although he later admits this is not his average day. His realistic morning routine is never described. This scandal brings up the question of productivity performance and its relation to consumerism.
The Negative Impacts of Toxic Productivity
Studies done by the National Center for Biotechnology Information examines the role of social comparison between social media usage and job burnout. The results are startling! Out of a study of 530 individuals, there is a positive correlation between social media use and job burnout. It was also found that job burnout is significant when social media addiction is in correlation with social comparison, including consuming the morning routine trend. The two are proven to be a dangerous mix! In summary, consuming curated achievements can cause feelings of inadequacy and create a more competitive atmosphere.
Do What Works For You
People are already clapping back at the trend with the humorous “Realistic Morning Routine.” I love this example by @Mrs.woolleyin5th on TikTok because she is honest about the state of her “dirty Keurig” and holiday season exhaustion. At the same time, Woolley is able to demonstrate a typical morning for many. Drinking coffee and snuggling on the couch! If waking early or planning late nights is what makes you happy I encourage it! However, this is not the only pathway to success and job security. Find a routine that works for you! A lot of schedules do not align with the traditional 9-5, and that is OK.
Stay strong N, Crowd.
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