Conversations with Experts: Dr. Michael Tompkins on Hustle, Meaning, and Merit
Unlocking the Power of Meaningful Hustle: How Aligning Your Values Can Make Success Sustainable
In this Meaning vs. Merit episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Michael Tompkins, a renowned psychologist and author. We explored the complexities of hustle culture and how to find meaning in a world where economic pressures often push us to go harder, faster, and further. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation.
The Role of Hustle
We started by talking about hustle culture—a concept many of us are familiar with. Dr. Tompkins shared his thoughts on hustle, emphasizing that while hard work is valuable, it’s crucial to approach it with flexibility. He explained that one of the keys to long-term success is hustling across different areas of life. “If you hustle relative to only one value,” he warned, “then if something happens relative to the situation, you are stuck.”
This was a powerful insight. Many of us might place all our value into one area—career success, for instance—but what happens when that career takes a downturn? The flexibility Dr. Tompkins talks about is essential. It’s about not just hustling for the sake of hustle, but understanding the different values that make up our identity. When we hustle for a greater purpose—whether it's family, personal growth, or something else meaningful—the work itself becomes more sustainable.
Connecting Hustle to Deeper Values
Dr. Tompkins also highlighted an important point: hustle isn't always about the money. For many, it’s about something deeper, like taking care of loved ones or contributing to a cause they believe in. When you connect your hustle to a meaningful purpose, it transforms the grind into something that feels less exhausting and more rewarding.
“Think about why you hustle,” he urged. “If you’re hustling to take care of your family, it’s not just about paying the bills—it’s about serving something far greater than yourself.”
When Hustle Feels Meaningless
"Hustle without meaningful reward is not sustainable" ~ Dr. Michael Tompkins
There are moments when we feel drained by the very hustle we once thrived in. Dr. Tompkins provided some advice for those moments of burnout: reframe the way you view the hustle. Instead of focusing on the external rewards, consider the internal values it serves. “What are you really serving by working so hard?” he asked. Reflecting on this can help reignite a sense of meaning when the grind feels overwhelming.
Finding Meaning Beyond the Hustle
Dr. Tompkins also touched on the importance of flexibility when pursuing merit. In his experience, those who are willing to explore different paths often find greater satisfaction. He acknowledged that many people feel pressure to “find their passion,” but pointed out that meaning doesn’t have to come from a singular passion—it can come from the choices we make along the way.
Ultimately, he suggested that we should not view our careers or hustle as isolated events but rather as pieces of a larger picture that includes family, relationships, and personal growth. As we navigate the demands of life, it’s essential to make room for those other areas that bring us meaning.
Advice for Young People: Embrace Regret as a Signal
As we wrapped up the conversation, I asked Dr. Tompkins for advice for young people who are trying to balance meaning and merit in their lives. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and learning from regret.
“Regret is a signal,” he explained. “It’s not about dwelling on the past but using that signal to help you make better decisions moving forward.” For young people, this insight is especially valuable as they navigate the inevitable ups and downs of life and career.
Some Final Thoughts
As we continue to explore the delicate balance between meaning and merit in Meaning vs. Merit, I encourage you to reflect on how you’re balancing these forces in your own life. Are you hustling for a purpose, or simply caught up in the grind? How can you realign your efforts to serve something that brings you deeper fulfillment? These are the questions that can help guide your path toward a more meaningful life, both professionally and personally.
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