Indian-origin CPO, who works 18 hrs/day, says ‘My daughter can come into any meeting’
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, achieving a balance between work and personal life can be a daunting task. With the constant pressure to meet deadlines, attend meetings, and deliver results, it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of work and neglect our personal lives. However, Jeetu Patel, the Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) of US-based Cisco, has shared his unique approach to maintaining a work-life balance despite working 18 hours a day.
In a recent interview, Patel revealed that he works seven days a week, which is a staggering amount of time dedicated to his job. However, he has set two rules for himself to ensure that his personal life doesn’t suffer as a result. The first rule is that he never takes a meeting before 9 am unless it’s with the CEO or the company’s board. This simple rule allows him to have a few hours of uninterrupted time in the morning to focus on his personal well-being and spend time with his family.
The second rule is even more interesting. Patel has declared that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting, anytime she wants. “She doesn’t have to knock on the door,” he said, emphasizing the importance of family time in his busy schedule. This rule may seem unconventional, but it highlights Patel’s commitment to prioritizing his personal life and making time for his loved ones, even in the midst of a chaotic work schedule.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a refreshing change from the traditional corporate culture, where work often takes precedence over personal life. By setting boundaries and prioritizing family time, he is able to recharge and come back to his work with renewed energy and focus. His willingness to involve his daughter in his work life also sends a powerful message about the importance of family and the need to break down the traditional barriers between work and personal life.
It’s worth noting that Patel’s approach may not work for everyone, and it’s not necessarily a model that can be replicated by others. However, his commitment to prioritizing his personal life and making time for his family is an inspiration to many. In an era where burnout and stress are increasingly common, Patel’s approach serves as a reminder that it’s possible to achieve success without sacrificing our personal well-being.
Moreover, Patel’s rules can be seen as a way to challenge the traditional notion of what it means to be a dedicated employee. In many corporate cultures, dedication is often measured by the number of hours worked, rather than the quality of work produced. Patel’s approach turns this notion on its head, suggesting that it’s possible to be dedicated to one’s work without sacrificing one’s personal life.
In addition, Patel’s willingness to involve his daughter in his work life can be seen as a way to promote a more inclusive and family-friendly work culture. By allowing his daughter to attend meetings, Patel is sending a message that family is valued and respected in the workplace. This approach can help to break down the barriers between work and personal life, creating a more holistic and integrated approach to work.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a breath of fresh air in the corporate world. By setting boundaries, prioritizing family time, and challenging traditional notions of dedication, he is able to maintain a healthy balance between his work and personal life. His commitment to involving his daughter in his work life is a powerful reminder of the importance of family and the need to break down the barriers between work and personal life. As we strive to achieve success in our own careers, Patel’s approach serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of prioritizing our personal well-being and making time for our loved ones.
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