The feasibility of a 70-hour workweek is a topic that hinges on a delicate balance between productivity, well-being, and workplace regulations. Infosys Chairman N.R. Narayana Murthy ignited a debate recently when he encouraged young Indians to dedicate 70 hours per week, roughly equivalent to a 12-hour workday over a 6-day workweek, in their efforts to contribute to the country’s development.
While it is technically possible to work for such an extended period, it often comes at a significant cost to physical and mental health. Such long hours may lead to burnout, reduced efficiency, and strained work-life balance. Additionally, labor laws in many countries mandate overtime pay and limit working hours to protect employees. In some specialized or demanding professions, a 70-hour workweek may be required temporarily, but it should be approached with caution, ensuring the welfare and rights of workers are upheld.
Debshankar Banerjee, Group CHRO, Experion Developers, says, “Our employees’ well-being and work-life balance are essential to us. We understand the demands of the modern workplace, but the idea of a 70-hour work week raises important questions about sustainability and productivity. While we recognize that certain professions may require extended hours during critical periods, we believe in the importance of fostering a culture that values efficiency and the pursuit of ambitious goals without sacrificing the health and happiness of our team.”
This concept goes beyond simply tracking the number of hours spent at work. “Overtime has become a prevalent practice in manufacturing units, and a substantial portion of the workforce supplements their primary employment with part-time jobs and additional assignments. However, it’s important to note that these practices are not consistently followed with rigor and adherence,” opines Dr Ravinder Goyal, Co-Founder, Erekrut HR Automation Solutions Pvt Ltd.
Rather than fixating on a rigid 9 AM to 9 PM work schedule, the focus should shift towards effectively managing a 12-hour work span. This approach recognizes that the value of work isn’t solely determined by the number of hours clocked, but by the quality and productivity within that time frame.
“Engaging in work with such a productive mindset not only propels the economy forward by optimizing human resources but also plays a pivotal role in fostering individual growth and professional development. It allows individuals to develop a diverse skill set, gain exposure to different industries, and broaden their horizons. Moreover, it instills a sense of adaptability and resilience, which are essential qualities in today’s dynamic job market,” adds Goyal.
Thus, companies should be committed to striking a balance between hard work and employee’s personal time, to ensure that the employees can bring their best selves to the job. “We encourage a culture of prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries, and providing flexibility when possible. As a company, we advocate for a more holistic approach to work, where quality output, innovation, and the well-being of our team go hand in hand. A 70-hour work week is often unsustainable in the long run, and we’re dedicated to creating an environment that respects the limits of human capacity while achieving excellence,” signs off Banerjee.
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