A former journalist says that hustle-culture burnout and recurring physical symptoms led them to leave a full-time editorial career and pursue a less intensive work routine.
The writer said neck stiffness, back and shoulder pain, stomach problems and a racing heartbeat developed after several years in journalism. A March 2018 emergency-room visit linked the symptoms to gastritis, neck spasm and stress.
Despite the warning, the writer continued working for another 11 months. They later concluded that long hours and constant pressure had turned rest into a luxury rather than a necessity.
Internal medicine physician Saundra Dalton-Smith’s book, “Sacred Rest,” which describes physical, mental, emotional, sensory, spiritual, social and creative forms of exhaustion.
The writer also recalled working 40 consecutive days without a break. They said fear of appearing lazy or falling behind reinforced that pattern.
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Eventually, the writer left full-time journalism to focus on fiction, a family business and part-time university teaching. They accepted lower earnings in exchange for a less demanding routine.
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The writer said the earlier physical symptoms have largely eased, although they return during periods of overwork. Their current routine includes writing, lesson preparation, evening walks, reading, prayer, journaling and music.
