The 5 to 9 before the 9 to 5: Toxic hustle culture or effective balance?

Toxic hustle culture or effective balance? That’s the question we’re asking when it comes to the latest TikTok work trend. 

As more employees show off their productive early morning starts, it’s important to consider what this means for balance and wellbeing. Just as busy isn’t a badge of honour, hyper- productivity shouldn’t be a race. The best approach is individual, and getting the balance right is essential if you want to avoid burnout. 

So what is this new trend, and how can you rethink it to prioritise a happy, healthy work environment?

The basics of the trend

You’ve witnessed the quiet quitting surge, but now TikTok is home to a brand-new work trend that takes an opposite approach. 

With millions of views under the #5to9 hashtag, TikTok users are sharing what they achieve towards a productive day before they make it to the office. 

From doing chores and prepping meals to getting ready and planning tasks, many employees are busy in the mornings. But for some, this new trend has all the hallmarks of a toxic hustle culture that fails to allow enough room for flexibility and prioritisation beyond productivity.

Why balance matters more

You won’t find the Heart team sharing TikTok videos that document our routines between 5am and 9am. Why? Because balance and wellbeing matter more. 

While there’s nothing wrong with taking time before the work day begins to tackle other chores and responsibilities, this isn’t the only way to work. 

For many working parents, the hours between 5 and 9 are consumed by early wakeup calls, busy school runs and battles over getting dressed and making beds. For others, an extra hour or two of sleep is an important part of preparing for the day ahead. 

According to dietitian and habit scientist Dr Gina Cleo, the 5-9 before-work trend can be helpful in boosting productivity, but it might also be cause for concern.

‘Potential harms can include sacrificing sleep for productivity, trying to fit in too much in a day, feeling inefficient when your body needs a sleep in or rest, being too focused on your routine and consequently neglecting listening to your body’s needs.’

In a world where 66% of employees say they don’t have a good work-life balance, it’s important to maintain a focus on wellbeing.  

A healthy sense of balance means more time for health and family, which can make it easier for employees to avoid burnout that would actually reduce productivity in the long-term. 

That’s not to mention the impact of work balance on talent retention, engagement and attraction. 

Looking after your team

As a leader, it’s your responsibility to look out for your team and provide a welcoming work environment with a positive employee experience. Balance is part of this process. 

Instead of encouraging your people to share a productive morning routine, ask them how they maintain balance and how they like to start the day. Chances are, you’ll receive answers that centre family duties and personal wellbeing. 

Provide your employees with the freedom and flexibility to look after themselves, work in ways that work for them and avoid a toxic culture that could compromise their health. 

When you look after your team and allow space for them to meet their physical and emotional needs, you’ll get more out of your people. Your team will achieve greater productivity the right way.

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