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 be available 24/7. However, US-based Cisco’s Indian-origin Chief Product Officer (CPO) Jeetu Patel has shared his unique approach to balancing his professional and personal life. Despite working 18 hours a day, Patel has established two simple yet effective rules that allow him to spend quality time with his family, particularly his daughter.
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 set a boundary that ensures he can spend time with his loved ones without compromising his work commitments. Patel stated 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 a few hours of uninterrupted 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 follows is more heartwarming. 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 family is important and should not be neglected, even in the most demanding of professions.
Patel’s approach to work-life balance is inspiring, especially in an era where burnout and stress are becoming increasingly common among professionals. By setting clear boundaries and prioritizing family time, Patel is able to recharge and maintain his physical and mental well-being, despite his demanding schedule. His rules also demonstrate that it’s possible to be a dedicated and successful professional without sacrificing time with loved ones.
It’s worth noting that Patel’s approach may not be feasible for everyone, and it’s essential to recognize that each individual’s circumstances and priorities are unique. However, his story serves as a reminder that achieving a work-life balance is not a one-size-fits-all solution. What works for Patel may not work for others, but his willingness to prioritize family time and set boundaries is a valuable lesson for anyone striving to maintain a healthy balance between their professional and personal life.
In an interview, Patel shared his thoughts on work-life balance, stating, “I still work seven days a week, but my daughter is allowed to come into any meeting…She doesn’t have to knock on the door.” This statement highlights the importance of flexibility and adaptability in achieving a work-life balance. By being open to adjusting his schedule and priorities, Patel is able to make time for his family and maintain a sense of normalcy, even in the midst of a demanding career.
Patel’s story also underscores the significance of communication and boundary-setting in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. By establishing clear rules and expectations, Patel is able to manage the demands of his job while also prioritizing his personal life. This approach can be applied to various aspects of life, from setting boundaries with colleagues and clients to prioritizing self-care and personal time.
In conclusion, Jeetu Patel’s approach to work-life balance is a testament to the fact that achieving a balance between professional and personal life is possible, even in the most demanding of careers. By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing family time, and being flexible, Patel is able to maintain a sense of balance and well-being, despite working 18 hours a day. His story serves as an inspiration to professionals everywhere, reminding us that with the right mindset and priorities, it’s possible to achieve success without sacrificing our personal lives.
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