Ever feel like you’re not doing enough? We’ve all been there, questioning the worth of our accomplishments, especially in an era where everything demands a curated “Pinterest aesthetic”. Burnout has long been normalised in Indian work and academic culture, viewed as a necessary sacrifice for success. But what sets this generation apart is the romanticisation of that exhaustion, where overwork isn’t just accepted, it’s glorified. The ideal Pinterest vision board comprises pictures of a well-lit “aesthetic” study desk, neatly curated notes, good grades, an image of a fictional bookworm reading or studying, and, of course, a motivational quote frequently echoing the phrases “study until you’re excited to give the test”.

To a certain extent, romanticising an activity that not many people are naturally drawn to yields positive outcomes. Arohi Chakravarty, a 19-year-old student, is an avid user of Pinterest and curates aesthetically pleasing mood boards to help her study. “ The aesthetics of a clean, brightly lit, well-organised room, and good handwriting, where people are often seen sipping their favourite drink or lighting a candle in an attempt not to treat it as a chore but rather a fun activity, is what is most appealing to me.” 

Rory Gilmore from Gilmore Girls cramming one night before her test. Pic/Tumblr@studyloves