The concept of hard work translating directly into success is a common theme in our community. The idea of side hustling our way into financial liberation sounds appealing but it really only works to enforce the shortcomings of our current economic system. What does this mean?
First, side hustles ignore the larger societal factors put in place that work to keep us from attaining huge economic success like racial discrimination barring us from good paying jobs or buying property. These issues cant be erased by simply hustling our way forward.
Side hustling ignores the key aspects of building wealth, like the amount of education and financial investment required to start a business. Building extreme wealth is just not possible for the majority of Black people. Pushing hustle culture only works our people to death for an unattainable goal.
We need rest and hustling all the time leaves very little room for it. This culture makes resting seem like a waste of time when in reality, rest is the most important thing for our bodies to perform and think at their best. Side hustle culture is seen as a great way for Black people to become financially free but it is really a trap mindset that reinforces toxic capitalism.