By Antoine Pepper
Bye, Burnout! Hello, Bubble Baths!
Move over, #GirlBoss, there’s a new vibe in town, and it’s all about silk pajamas, scented candles, and saying “absolutely not” to unnecessary stress. Enter the #SoftLife movement, TikTok’s latest rebellion against the glorification of grind culture. And guess who’s leading the charge? African women, that’s who.
For years, society (and capitalism) has sold us the idea that success looks like 80-hour workweeks, sleepless nights, and a caffeine addiction strong enough to power a small village. But African women are flipping the script, trading in “hustle till you collapse” for “relaxation is resistance.”
So, why now? And why is this movement hitting different for African women? Grab your matcha latte (or hibiscus tea, because #SoftLife is all about preference), and let’s dive in.
What Exactly Is the ‘Soft Life’?
Coined by Nigerian influencers and now spreading like wildfire across TikTok, #SoftLife is about prioritizing ease, joy, and personal peace over society’s obsession with productivity. Think:
- Saying no to things that drain you (yes, even that family gathering with your nosy aunties).
- Investing in comfort, good skincare, cozy loungewear, and meals that don’t involve sad desk salads.
- Redefining success, because “I rested well today” is just as valid as “I closed a billion-dollar deal.”
For African women, this is especially revolutionary. Many grew up hearing “no pain, no gain” or “you have to work twice as hard to get half as much.” But now? They’re rewriting the rules.
Why African Women Are Over Hustle Culture
- Colonialism Already Stole Our Chill
Let’s be real, African women have been hustling for centuries. From navigating patriarchal systems to surviving economic instability, the grind wasn’t a choice; it was a necessity. Now, a new generation is asking: “What if we… just didn’t?”
2. Social Media Made Burnout Look Glamorous (Until It Didn’t)
For years, Instagram feeds were flooded with “rise and grind” posts, women bragging about 4 AM wake-up calls like sleep was a moral failing. But after the pandemic, people started questioning: “Who am I grinding for? And why does my boss care more about my productivity than my sanity?”
African women, in particular, are rejecting the performative hustle. Nigerian content creator @LolaofLagos put it perfectly: “I used to think suffering was a badge of honor. Now, my badge is my 8-hour sleep and my stress-free skincare routine.”
3. The Rise of the “Lazy Girl Job” (And We Love That For Them)
Gen Z coined the term “lazy girl job” a well-paying, low-stress role that funds your actual life. African women are taking notes. Why kill yourself climbing the corporate ladder when you can… not?
Kenyan TikToker jokes and says: “My ancestors worked the land for free. I’ll be damned if I’m overworking myself for a LinkedIn post.”
How to Embrace the Soft Life (Without Guilt)
Step 1: Delete the Word “Grind” From Your Vocabulary
Replace it with: “flow,” “ease,” or “vibes.” Your LinkedIn bio doesn’t need to sound like a CrossFit ad.
Step 2: Set Boundaries Like a Queen
- At work: “I’ll respond during business hours. No, Karen, 11 PM is not a business hour.”
- With family: “No, Aunty, I won’t be catering your cousin’s friend’s wedding for free. My soft life includes getting paid.”
Step 3: Redefine Productivity
- Old mindset: “I must accomplish 50 things today.”
- Soft life mindset: “If I drink enough water and don’t cry at my inbox, that’s a win.”
Step 4: Invest in Joy
- Buy the overpriced candle.
- Take the nap.
- Book the solo trip.
Your ancestors literally fought wars. You deserve to enjoy peace.
The Backlash: Is Soft Life Privileged?
Of course, critics say “soft life is only for the wealthy!” And sure, not everyone can quit their job to meditate in Bali. But the movement isn’t about money, it’s about mindset.
Ghanaian blogger explains: “Soft life isn’t about being rich; it’s about refusing to suffer unnecessarily. Even if you’re broke, you can say no to toxic relationships, prioritize rest, and find small joys.”
Final Thought: Soft Life = Revolutionary Act
In a world that profits off our exhaustion, choosing rest is resistance. African women embracing soft life aren’t being lazy, they’re reclaiming their right to exist beyond labor.
So the next time someone side-eyes you for taking a mental health day, just smile and say: *”My soft life is my protest. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with my weighted blanket.”*
#SoftLifeForever. 🕊️✨
