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 perfect work-life balance is a daunting task, especially for top executives who are expected to be available 24/7. However, US-based Cisco’s Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) Jeetu Patel has shared his unique approach to balancing his demanding work schedule with his personal life. Despite working 18 hours a day, Patel has set two simple rules that help him maintain a sense of normalcy and prioritize his family.
In a recent interview, Patel revealed that he works seven days a week, which is a staggering amount of time by any standard. However, he has established two non-negotiable rules that ensure he doesn’t compromise on his family time. 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 spend with his family and get settled for the day. Secondly, and more remarkably, his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting she wants, without knocking on the door. This rule may seem simple, but it speaks volumes about Patel’s priorities and his commitment to being present for his family.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is refreshing, especially in an industry where burnout and long working hours are common. By setting these two rules, he is able to create a sense of boundaries between his work and personal life, which is essential for maintaining his mental and physical well-being. Moreover, by allowing his daughter to attend meetings, Patel is sending a powerful message about the importance of family and the need to prioritize them, even in the midst of a demanding career.
It’s worth noting that Patel’s rules are not just about personal convenience; they also reflect his values and priorities as a leader. By being open and accessible to his family, Patel is demonstrating a level of vulnerability and humility that is rare in corporate leaders. He is showing that even the most senior executives can prioritize their family and still be successful in their careers. This approach can have a positive impact on the company culture, encouraging other employees to prioritize their family and well-being, leading to a more balanced and productive workforce.
Patel’s story also highlights the importance of self-care and boundaries in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In today’s always-on culture, it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of work and neglect our personal lives. However, Patel’s rules demonstrate that it’s possible to set boundaries and prioritize our well-being, even in the most demanding roles. By doing so, we can avoid burnout, maintain our relationships, and perform better in our careers.
Furthermore, Patel’s approach can also have a positive impact on diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By prioritizing his family and allowing his daughter to attend meetings, Patel is promoting a culture of inclusivity and flexibility. This can help to attract and retain top talent, especially women and caregivers, who often struggle to balance their work and family responsibilities. By showing that family is a priority, Patel is creating a more welcoming and supportive work environment that values diversity and promotes equality.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a breath of fresh air in the corporate world. Despite working 18 hours a day, he has set simple yet effective rules that prioritize his family and well-being. By allowing his daughter to attend meetings and refusing to take early morning meetings, Patel is demonstrating a level of commitment to his family and a willingness to challenge traditional corporate norms. His approach is a reminder that even the most senior executives can prioritize their family and still be successful in their careers. As we strive to achieve a better work-life balance, Patel’s story serves as a powerful inspiration, encouraging us to set boundaries, prioritize our well-being, and promote a culture of inclusivity and flexibility in the workplace.
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