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, US-based Cisco’s Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) Jeetu Patel has shown that it is possible to strike a balance between work and personal life, even when working 18 hours a day.
In a recent interview, Patel shared his unique approach to managing his work schedule, which allows him to spend quality time with his family, particularly his daughter. Despite his demanding role, Patel has set two simple yet effective rules to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Firstly, he never takes a meeting before 9 am unless it’s with the CEO or the company’s board. Secondly, his daughter is always welcome to join him in any meeting, without needing to knock on the door.
Patel’s commitment to his family is evident in the way he prioritizes his personal time. By not taking early morning meetings, he ensures that he can spend time with his loved ones and get a head start on his day. This approach also allows him to be more focused and productive during his working hours, which is essential for someone who works as many hours as he does.
The fact that Patel’s daughter can join him in any meeting is a testament to his dedication to being a present and involved parent. In an era where work-life balance is often sacrificed at the altar of career advancement, Patel’s approach is a breath of fresh air. By including his daughter in his work life, he is not only teaching her valuable lessons about the corporate world but also showing her that family is an integral part of his life.
It’s worth noting that Patel still works seven days a week, which is a significant commitment to his role at Cisco. However, by setting boundaries and prioritizing his family time, he is able to maintain a sense of balance and normalcy in his life. This approach also sets a positive example for his colleagues and subordinates, who may be struggling to manage their own work-life balance.
Patel’s story is an inspiration to many, particularly those who feel that they need to choose between their career and their family. By showing that it is possible to excel in a high-pressure role while still being a devoted parent, he is challenging traditional notions of what it means to be a successful executive.
In addition, Patel’s approach highlights the importance of flexibility and adaptability in the modern workplace. By allowing his daughter to join him in meetings, he is demonstrating that work and family life are not mutually exclusive, but rather interconnected aspects of our lives. This mindset shift is essential for creating a more inclusive and supportive work environment, where employees feel empowered to prioritize their family time without compromising their career goals.
As we navigate the complexities of our own work-life balance, Patel’s story serves as a reminder that it is possible to achieve success without sacrificing our personal relationships. By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing family time, and being flexible, we can create a more sustainable and fulfilling approach to our careers.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a shining example of how to prioritize family time while still excelling in a demanding role. His commitment to his daughter and his willingness to challenge traditional notions of work and family are an inspiration to us all. As we strive to create a better balance between our work and personal lives, we would do well to follow Patel’s lead and remember that family is an integral part of our lives, not something to be sacrificed for the sake of our careers.
About the Author
