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 often find themselves working long hours. However, US-based Cisco’s Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) Jeetu Patel has shared his unique approach to maintaining a balance between his professional and personal life. Despite working 18 hours a day, Patel has set two simple yet effective rules to ensure that his family life is not compromised.
In a recent statement, Patel revealed that he works seven days a week, which is a staggering amount of time. However, he has established two non-negotiable rules to prioritize his family. 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 spend quality time with his family in the morning and have a sense of normalcy in his daily routine.
The second rule is even more remarkable. Patel has declared that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting, without any restrictions or formalities. “She doesn’t have to knock on the door,” he said, emphasizing the importance of family time and flexibility in his work schedule. This approach not only showcases Patel’s commitment to his family but also highlights the need for organizations to adopt more flexible and inclusive work cultures.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is particularly noteworthy, given the demanding nature of his role as CPO at Cisco. As a leader in the tech industry, he is responsible for driving innovation and growth, which often requires long hours and intense focus. However, by setting clear boundaries and prioritizing his family, Patel is able to recharge and maintain his productivity, even in the face of intense professional demands.
The fact that Patel’s daughter is allowed to join him in meetings also sends a powerful message about the importance of family and inclusivity in the workplace. In an era where work-life balance is increasingly recognized as a critical aspect of employee well-being, Patel’s approach serves as a model for other organizations to follow. By embracing flexibility and inclusivity, companies can create a more supportive and productive work environment that benefits both employees and their families.
Moreover, Patel’s story highlights the need for leaders to prioritize their own well-being and set realistic expectations for themselves and their teams. As a role model, Patel’s commitment to his family and his own work-life balance can inspire others to adopt similar approaches, leading to a more sustainable and healthy work culture.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s story serves as a reminder that achieving work-life balance is possible, even in the most demanding professions. By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing family, and embracing flexibility, leaders can maintain their productivity and well-being while also fostering a more inclusive and supportive work culture. As we strive to create a better balance between our professional and personal lives, Patel’s approach offers valuable insights and inspiration for us all.
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