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 managing his work and personal life. Despite working 18 hours a day, Patel has set two simple rules for himself to ensure that his family life is not compromised.
In a recent interview, Patel revealed that he works seven days a week, which is a staggering amount of time. However, he has set a rule for himself that 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 some personal time in the morning, which he can use to spend with his family or focus on his personal well-being.
The second rule that Patel has set for himself is even more interesting. He has made it clear that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting, and she doesn’t have to knock on the door. This rule may seem simple, but it speaks volumes about Patel’s priorities in life. By allowing his daughter to enter any meeting, Patel is sending a strong message that his family is important to him, and he will not compromise on his family time, no matter how busy he is.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is refreshing, especially in a world where many executives struggle to disconnect from work. With the rise of technology, it’s easier than ever to stay connected to work 24/7, but this can also lead to burnout and neglect of personal relationships. By setting clear boundaries and priorities, Patel is able to manage his work and personal life effectively, even with a demanding schedule.
It’s also worth noting that Patel’s approach to work-life balance is not just about personal benefits; it also has a positive impact on his work. By having a clear distinction between his work and personal life, Patel is able to focus better on his work and be more productive. Additionally, his rule about not taking meetings before 9 am allows him to have some time to himself in the morning, which can help him clear his mind and prioritize his tasks for the day.
Patel’s story is also an inspiration to many young professionals who struggle to balance their work and personal life. In today’s competitive job market, it’s easy to get sucked into the idea that one needs to be available 24/7 to succeed. However, Patel’s approach shows that it’s possible to be successful and still have a fulfilling personal life.
Furthermore, Patel’s approach to work-life balance is also a testament to the importance of family in Indian culture. In many Indian families, family is considered to be the top priority, and work is seen as a means to support the family. Patel’s rule about allowing his daughter to enter any meeting is a reflection of this cultural value, and it’s heartening to see that he is prioritizing his family despite his demanding schedule.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a breath of fresh air in a world where many executives struggle to disconnect from work. By setting clear boundaries and priorities, Patel is able to manage his work and personal life effectively, even with a demanding schedule. His story is an inspiration to many young professionals who struggle to balance their work and personal life, and it’s a testament to the importance of family in Indian culture.
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