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 challenge that many professionals struggle with. With the ever-increasing demands of the job, it’s easy to get sucked into the vortex of work and neglect personal life. However, Jeetu Patel, the Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) at US-based Cisco, 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 for himself to ensure that his personal life doesn’t suffer.
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 is essential for rejuvenating and preparing for the long day ahead. By not scheduling meetings early in the morning, Patel can have a leisurely breakfast, spend time with his family, or engage in some exercise to get himself ready for the day.
The second rule that Patel has set for himself is even more interesting. He has declared that his daughter is allowed to come into any meeting, without knocking on the door. This rule may seem simple, but it’s a powerful statement about the importance of family in Patel’s life. By allowing his daughter to enter any meeting, Patel is sending a clear message that his family is his top priority, and he will not compromise on that. This rule also sets a great example for his team members and colleagues, who may be struggling to balance their own work and personal life.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a refreshing change from the typical corporate culture, where professionals are often expected to put their job above everything else. By setting clear boundaries and priorities, Patel is able to manage his time effectively and ensure that his personal life doesn’t suffer. His rules may not work for everyone, but they are a great reminder that achieving a balance between work and personal life is possible, even in the most demanding jobs.
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 professional life. By having a clear distinction between his work and personal life, Patel is able to approach his job with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. This, in turn, helps him to be more productive and effective in his role as CPO at Cisco.
In addition to his rules, Patel’s willingness to work 18 hours a day is a testament to his dedication and commitment to his job. As a CPO at a leading technology company, Patel’s role is incredibly demanding, and he needs to be available to his team and stakeholders at all times. However, by setting clear boundaries and priorities, Patel is able to manage his time effectively and ensure that he is available to his family and loved ones when they need him.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a great reminder that achieving a balance between work and personal life is possible, even in the most demanding jobs. By setting clear boundaries and priorities, professionals can manage their time effectively and ensure that their personal life doesn’t suffer. Patel’s rules may not work for everyone, but they are a great example of how simple yet effective changes can make a big difference in our lives.
As the corporate world continues to evolve and become more demanding, it’s essential for professionals to prioritize their personal life and well-being. By following Patel’s example and setting clear boundaries and priorities, we can achieve a better balance between our work and personal life, leading to greater happiness, productivity, and success.
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