The Rise of the “Blurred Lines” Culture

For years, the tech industry has been synonymous with a demanding, often relentless, work culture. The “hustle” mentality, fueled by rapid growth and intense competition, fostered a sense of always-on availability. Long hours, weekend work, and a blurring of personal and professional boundaries were often seen as badges of honor, a necessary sacrifice for success. This environment, while perhaps productive in the short term, also led to burnout, high employee turnover, and a pervasive feeling of being constantly “on.” The expectation wasn’t just to work hard; it was to live and breathe the