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 meet the demands of their job. However, Jeetu Patel, the Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) at US-based Cisco, has shared his unique approach to balancing his work and personal life. Despite working 18 hours a day, Patel has set two simple rules for himself to ensure that his personal and professional life do not conflict with each other.
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 set a strict 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 pursue his personal interests. This small window of time helps him recharge and prepare for the long day ahead.
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 even need to knock on the door. This rule may seem simple, but it speaks volumes about Patel’s priorities and values. 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 personal time with them, no matter how busy he is.
This approach to work-life balance is not only admirable but also refreshing. In an era where executives are often expected to be available 24/7, Patel’s rules show that it is possible to set boundaries and prioritize personal time. By doing so, he is not only taking care of his physical and mental health but also setting a good example for his team and colleagues.
Patel’s story is also a testament to the fact that Indian-origin executives are making a mark in the global corporate world. With his impressive career trajectory and dedication to his job, Patel is an inspiration to many young professionals who aspire to make it big in the corporate world. His ability to balance his work and personal life is a valuable lesson for anyone who is struggling to manage their time and prioritize their personal and professional responsibilities.
It’s also worth noting that Patel’s approach to work-life balance is not just about setting rules, but also about being mindful of his time and energy. By working 18 hours a day, Patel is clearly dedicated to his job, but he is also aware of the importance of taking breaks and spending time with his loved ones. This mindfulness is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and it’s something that many executives and professionals can learn from.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s story is a fascinating example of how executives can balance their work and personal life, even in the most demanding jobs. By setting simple rules and prioritizing his family time, Patel has shown that it is possible to achieve a perfect work-life balance, even when working 18 hours a day. His approach is a valuable lesson for anyone who is struggling to manage their time and prioritize their personal and professional responsibilities.
As we strive to achieve our own work-life balance, we can learn from Patel’s example and set our own rules and boundaries. Whether it’s setting aside time for family, pursuing a hobby, or simply taking a break from work, we can all benefit from being more mindful of our time and energy. By doing so, we can maintain our physical and mental health, build stronger relationships with our loved ones, and achieve greater success and fulfillment in our personal and professional lives.
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