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 and Experience Officer (CPO) at US-based Cisco, has shared his unique approach to balancing his professional 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 dedicated to his job. However, he has established two non-negotiable rules to maintain a sense of balance in his life. 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, which is essential for his personal well-being. Secondly, and more remarkably, Patel has declared that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting she wants, without needing to knock on the door. This rule may seem unconventional, but it highlights Patel’s commitment to prioritizing his family life, even in the midst of a demanding work schedule.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is refreshing, especially considering the long hours he puts in. By setting these two rules, he is able to create a sense of separation between his professional and personal life, which is essential for maintaining his physical and mental health. Moreover, by allowing his daughter to attend meetings, Patel is teaching her valuable lessons about the importance of family and the need to prioritize personal relationships, even in a high-pressure corporate environment.
It’s worth noting that Patel’s approach may not be feasible or desirable for everyone. Many people may not be able to work 18 hours a day, and others may not want to bring their family members into their work meetings. However, Patel’s story highlights the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing one’s personal life, even in the face of demanding work requirements.
In addition to his rules, Patel’s story also underscores the importance of flexibility and adaptability in achieving work-life balance. By being open to having his daughter attend meetings, Patel is demonstrating a willingness to be flexible and adapt to changing circumstances. This approach can be applied to many aspects of life, both personal and professional, and can help individuals navigate the complexities of modern life.
Furthermore, Patel’s story has implications for organizations and leaders who are seeking to promote work-life balance and support the well-being of their employees. By embracing flexible work arrangements and prioritizing employee well-being, organizations can create a more positive and productive work environment. This, in turn, can lead to increased job satisfaction, reduced turnover, and improved overall performance.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s story serves as a reminder that achieving work-life balance is a personal and ongoing process. While his approach may not be suitable for everyone, it highlights the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing family life, and being flexible and adaptable. As we navigate the challenges of modern life, we can learn from Patel’s example and strive to create our own unique approaches to balancing our professional and personal responsibilities.
Patel’s story also raises important questions about the role of family in the workplace. By allowing his daughter to attend meetings, Patel is challenging traditional notions of what is considered “professional” and highlighting the importance of family in our personal and professional lives. This approach may not be for everyone, but it underscores the need for organizations to be more supportive of working families and to create policies and cultures that promote work-life balance.
Ultimately, achieving work-life balance is a journey, not a destination. It requires effort, commitment, and a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances. Jeetu Patel’s story serves as a reminder that, even in the most demanding of careers, it is possible to prioritize family life and maintain a sense of balance and well-being.
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