Across social media, extremes of hustle culture—“grind mode” versus a meticulously optimized routine—are prompting debate among founders and employees alike. As job listings call for 70-hour work weeks and data suggests rising burnout, some in Silicon Valley wonder if there’s a healthier path forward.

One partner’s lively, globe-trotting work schedule has led to envy for the person left at home. Though the traveling partner insists these trips are no vacation, the letter writer questions whether such complaints are genuine.

Pennsylvania workers are leading the nation in unused paid time off this year, according to a new nationwide survey. As the end of 2025 approaches, inboxes fill with reminders of leftover vacation days, revealing a surprising statewide pattern of leaving PTO on the table.

A teacher seeking guidance shared that acting “meaner” in the classroom seems to improve life back home. According to this “Dear Abby” piece, big shifts at school unexpectedly strengthen the teacher’s bond with the “girls” under their roof.

European startups are pushing back against calls to adopt China’s ‘996’ work culture—working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week—as a means to compete globally. Founders and venture capitalists argue that overwork is unnecessary and counterproductive, emphasizing sustainable growth and employee well-being instead.

Balancing the demands of raising my son, caring for my mother, working, and finishing my master’s degree is chaotic, but it’s a chaos that gives me purpose. As part of the “sandwich generation,” I’m navigating these challenges with determination.

Shohei Ohtani, a cornerstone of the Los Angeles Dodgers, steps away from the diamond to embrace fatherhood, missing the weekend series for the birth of his first child.