Indian-origin CPO, who works 18 hrs/day, says ‘My daughter can come into any meeting’
In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, achieving a balance between work and personal life can be a daunting task. With the constant pressure to meet deadlines, respond to emails, and attend meetings, it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of work-related responsibilities, leaving little time for family, friends, and personal interests. However, Jeetu Patel, the Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) at US-based Cisco, has shared his unique approach to managing work-life balance, despite working an astonishing 18 hours a day.
In a recent interview, Patel revealed that he works seven days a week, which is undoubtedly a demanding schedule. However, he has established two non-negotiable rules that help him maintain a sense of balance and normalcy in his life. Firstly, he never takes a meeting before 9 am unless it’s with the CEO or the company’s board. This rule allows him to have a few hours of uninterrupted time in the morning to focus on his personal priorities, such as spending time with his family or exercising.
The second rule is even more remarkable. Patel has declared that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting, at any time, without having to knock on the door. This may seem like a simple gesture, but it speaks volumes about Patel’s commitment to prioritizing his family and creating a sense of openness and transparency in his work environment. By allowing his daughter to enter meetings freely, Patel is sending a powerful message about the importance of family and the need to integrate personal and professional life.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is not only inspiring but also challenging. In an era where work and personal life are increasingly blurred, it’s refreshing to see a high-profile executive like Patel prioritizing his family and personal well-being. By setting clear boundaries and rules, Patel is able to manage his time effectively, ensuring that he can devote quality time to his work, family, and personal interests.
One of the key takeaways from Patel’s approach is the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal time. In today’s always-on culture, it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of work-related responsibilities, leaving little time for personal interests or family. By establishing clear rules and boundaries, individuals can create a sense of separation between their work and personal life, allowing them to recharge and refocus.
Another important aspect of Patel’s approach is the emphasis on family and personal relationships. By allowing his daughter to enter meetings freely, Patel is demonstrating the importance of nurturing personal relationships and creating a sense of connection with loved ones. In a world where work can often dominate our lives, it’s essential to prioritize personal relationships and create opportunities for meaningful interactions with family and friends.
Patel’s story also highlights the importance of self-care and personal well-being. Working 18 hours a day, seven days a week, is undoubtedly demanding, both physically and mentally. However, by prioritizing his personal time and setting clear boundaries, Patel is able to manage his energy levels and maintain a sense of well-being. This is a critical lesson for individuals who often neglect their personal well-being in the pursuit of professional success.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing personal relationships, setting clear boundaries, and nurturing personal well-being. As a high-profile executive, Patel’s commitment to his family and personal interests is inspiring, and his rules for managing work-life balance are a valuable lesson for individuals seeking to achieve a better balance between their work and personal life.
As we strive to navigate the demands of modern work life, Patel’s story serves as a reminder that it’s possible to achieve success and balance in our personal and professional lives. By establishing clear rules, prioritizing personal relationships, and nurturing our well-being, we can create a sense of harmony and fulfillment that extends beyond our professional responsibilities.
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