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 high-ranking executives who are expected to put in long hours to drive their companies forward. However, Jeetu Patel, the Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) at US-based Cisco, has shared his unique approach to balancing his demanding work schedule with family life. Despite working 18 hours a day, Patel has set two simple rules to ensure that his personal life does not suffer.
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 to maintain a semblance of work-life balance. 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 well-being and spend time with his family.
The second rule is even more heartwarming. Patel has declared that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting, without needing to knock on the door. This rule may seem simple, but it speaks volumes about Patel’s commitment to prioritizing family time, even in the midst of a chaotic work schedule. By allowing his daughter to enter any meeting, Patel is sending a powerful message about the importance of family and the need to nurture relationships, even in the corporate world.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a refreshing change from the typical corporate culture, where employees are often expected to put work above all else. By setting boundaries and prioritizing family time, Patel is demonstrating that it is possible to be a dedicated and successful executive while also being a devoted parent. His rules may not work for everyone, but they serve as a reminder that achieving a balance between work and personal life is crucial for our overall well-being.
The fact that Patel works 18 hours a day is a testament to his dedication to his job and his commitment to driving Cisco’s success. However, it’s equally important to recognize the potential risks associated with such a demanding work schedule. Chronic overwork can lead to burnout, stress, and a range of other health problems. By prioritizing family time and setting boundaries, Patel is taking proactive steps to mitigate these risks and maintain his physical and mental health.
Patel’s story also highlights the importance of role models in the corporate world. As a high-ranking executive, Patel has the opportunity to inspire and influence others, both within Cisco and beyond. By sharing his approach to work-life balance, he is encouraging others to rethink their priorities and find ways to nurture their personal relationships, even in the midst of a demanding work schedule.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a powerful reminder that achieving a balance between work and personal life is crucial for our overall well-being. By setting simple yet effective rules, Patel is demonstrating that it is possible to be a successful and dedicated executive while also being a devoted parent. As we strive to achieve our own work-life balance, Patel’s story serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of prioritizing family time, setting boundaries, and nurturing our personal relationships.
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