The Cost of “Pretty Dam Hard”

The recent release of a new crossword puzzle on Slate, with the title “Working Pretty Dam Hard,” has been making waves in the wellness community. At first glance, it seems like just another innocuous puzzle to keep our minds sharp and entertained. However, upon closer inspection, this seemingly harmless game reveals a telling pattern about the way we talk about work and mental health.

The rise of “wellness” as a buzzword has been accompanied by an increase in language that valorizes exhaustion as a badge of honor. We’ve all heard phrases like “I’m burning out,” or “I’m just so busy, I don’t have time for self-care.” This language suggests that being overworked and under-rested is not only acceptable but also desirable.

The title itself is telling. The phrase “pretty dam hard” is an idiomatic expression that means “very difficult.” However, it’s also worth noting that the word “dam” sounds suspiciously like a euphemism for the word “hard.” This linguistic sleight of hand can be seen as a way to mask the true nature of our work-related struggles. By using softer language, we avoid confronting the harsh realities of burnout and overwork.

The consequences of perpetuating this narrative are severe. When we normalize exhaustion as a necessary evil, we risk creating a culture that values productivity above all else. This can lead to a toxic work environment where employees feel pressured to sacrifice their well-being for the sake of their job. In extreme cases, it can even contribute to mental health crises like depression and anxiety.

The wellness industry has long been criticized for its tendency to commodify self-care and mental health. By packaging mindfulness and meditation as luxury goods, we create a system where only those who can afford it have access to the resources they need to thrive. The “pretty dam hard” mindset is just another iteration of this trend, where we equate being overworked with being worthy.

The phrase has become a staple of modern conversation, often used to downplay the severity of our struggles or to imply that we’re somehow better off for being overworked. But what does this say about our values? When did we start celebrating exhaustion and burnout as proof of our worth?

This trend is not limited to the wellness industry. The rise of Silicon Valley-style startup culture has also contributed to a narrative that valorizes long hours and intense productivity. Entrepreneurs and founders are often lionized for their ability to “burn the midnight oil” or “work 100-hour weeks.” However, this comes at a cost: our mental health and relationships suffer.

When we normalize burnout, we create a culture where mental health is viewed as an afterthought. By equating exhaustion with productivity, we risk ignoring the very real consequences of overwork. Depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation have all been linked to prolonged periods of stress and pressure.

This narrative affects not just individuals but entire industries. When companies prioritize profits over employee well-being, they create a toxic work environment that can lead to decreased productivity, increased turnover rates, and even lawsuits.

As we move forward, it’s essential that we prioritize mental health and well-being above all else. This means reexamining our language and promoting policies that support employee wellness. It’s time to rethink what we mean by “hard work” and start valuing rest and self-care as the ultimate badges of honor.