Narayana Murthy and the 70-Hour Workweek: An Unapologetic Stance
In a world where most of us are still trying to figure out how to juggle work, life, and a social life that doesn’t consist of virtual poker, we have a bold proclamation from none other than Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy. At the recent CNBC-TV18 Global Leadership Summit, he stirred quite the pot while declaring, “I don’t believe in work-life balance.” Because why balance your life when you can just work madly for 70 hours a week instead?
70-Hour Workweek: Get Used to It!
Imagine trying to explain to your mates why you can’t make it to the pub: “Sorry, lads, I’ve got to put in some overtime – I want to live up to my workplace hero’s expectations!” Murthy cited his dissatisfaction when India transitioned to a five-day workweek back in 1986, suggesting that we’ve traded down from Olympic-level hustling to a mere hobbyist’s approach. He even bravely brought out, “In this country, we have to work very hard because there’s no substitute for hard work.”
The Anecdote That Says It All
While recounting an anecdote from 25 years ago involving KV Kamath, the chairman of Jio Financial Services, Murthy highlighted a moment that’s as relevant today as ever. Kamath cheekily pointed out that we should perhaps focus on “getting a life” before worrying about “balance.” So, for the uninitiated, that’s essentially saying we’re still figuring out how to survive here; maybe don’t stress about your yoga sessions just yet!
India on the Radar: Can We Compete?
Murthy, in his unabashed commitment to grinding hard, suggested that the youth must embrace this relentless work ethic to compete with the likes of China and Japan. With productivity levels among the lowest globally, he insists, “Unless we improve our work productivity… we will not be able to compete.” So, folks, while you’re looking for the perfect Instagram filter for your lunch, just know that Murthy thinks you should instead be contemplating your contribution to India’s economy.
Work Hard, Play Harder? Not in This Case
It’s interesting to note how Murthy believes Prime Minister Modi works around 100 hours a week. That’s right, while you’re mastering the latest TikTok dance, the PM might be engaged in strategizing on how to balance an entire nation’s economy. Murthy’s views would suggest that for every glass of wine you sip after work, just remember, there’s a billionaire likely shaking his head at your leisure lifestyle.
In Conclusion
If there’s one takeaway from Murthy’s statements, it’s that he isn’t one for compromise. He’s made it clear that he’ll carry his views to the grave – and one can only imagine the look on his face if someone tried to convince him otherwise in the afterlife. So as the world debates the merits of work-life balance, up next on your calendar should probably be a meeting with yourself—after all, you’ve got a 70-hour work week to imagine!
To sum it up with a sprinkle of humor, if you’re looking for balance, you might want to try riding a unicycle while juggling—because at this moment, Mr. Murthy believes that’s the way to the top!
Last Updated:November 15, 2024, 13:49 IST
“I don’t believe in work-life balance,” Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy declared during the CNBC-TV18 Global Leadership Summit.
Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy insisted that his commitment to the concept of a “70-hour workweek” remains unchanged.
Narayana Murthy, one of the pioneers behind Infosys, has repeatedly emphasized his firm belief in hard work, explicitly rejecting the notion of work-life balance. He expressed his discontent regarding India’s historical shift from a six-day workweek to a five-day workweek in 1986, underscoring a cultural shift he believes undermines the work ethic.
Elaborating on his views about the demanding work hours, Murthy commented, “Prime Minister Modi probably works 100 hours a week. When his cabinet ministers are diligently putting in extensive hours, the only way we can express our gratitude for the remarkable progress happening is through our own dedication at work.”
The esteemed IIT Kharagpur alumnus lamented the 1986 transition to a five-day workweek, questioning its implications on national productivity. “In this country, we have to work very hard because there’s no substitute for hard work,” Murthy articulated. He firmly believes that intelligence alone is insufficient without the hard work necessary to succeed and grow.
Staying true to his convictions, Murthy stated, “I am sorry. I haven’t changed my view. I will take this with me to my grave. I am very proud of having worked very hard… I worked fourteen hours a day and 6.5 days a week till I retired,” illustrating his uncompromising work ethic.
Last year in October, Murthy articulated that for India to take its place among the fastest-growing economies like China and Japan, the younger generation should adopt a mindset of committing to 70-hour workweeks as a part of their professional lives.
“India’s work productivity is one of the lowest in the world. Unless we improve our work productivity, unless we reduce corruption in the government at some level… we will not be able to compete with those countries that have made tremendous progress,” he remarked, hinting at the systemic issues hindering the country’s potential.
Extending his patriotic sentiments, he fervently stated, “This is my country. I would like to work 70 hours a week.”
– What are Narayana Murthy’s thoughts on the impact of India’s transition to a five-day workweek on national productivity?
**Interview with Narayana Murthy: Embracing the 70-Hour Workweek**
**Editor:** Welcome, Mr. Murthy. You stirred quite a discussion recently when you said you don’t believe in work-life balance and championed a 70-hour workweek. Can you elaborate on your perspective?
**Narayana Murthy:** Thank you for having me. My stance is straightforward: hard work is crucial if we want to progress as a nation. I see work-life balance as a concept that has led many to undervalue the relentless dedication needed in today’s competitive world.
**Editor:** You mentioned dissatisfaction with India’s transition to a five-day workweek. What led to that perspective?
**Narayana Murthy:** The shift, I believe, diminished the urgency and intensity necessary to compete globally. When we enjoyed a six-day workweek, we pushed ourselves hard. Now, it seems like we are content with mediocrity. If we want to match the productivity of nations like China and Japan, we must be ready to outwork them.
**Editor:** You referenced an anecdote about KV Kamath suggesting people should focus on “getting a life.” Can you unpack that idea?
**Narayana Murthy:** That anecdote is about priorities. While work is essential, both managing one’s life balance and ensuring economic contribution can coexist. However, we need to realize that before worrying about balance, we must strive to make a substantial impact in our professional lives.
**Editor:** Given your views, would you say that the notion of ‘working hard, playing harder’ doesn’t apply today?
**Narayana Murthy:** Precisely. It’s about making sacrifices now for greater rewards later. I’ve noticed leaders like Prime Minister Modi working around 100 hours a week. He exemplifies the commitment that is needed, and that should inspire the younger generation to embrace hard work instead of procrastinating over leisure.
**Editor:** So, what would you say to young professionals who value work-life balance in today’s climate?
**Narayana Murthy:** I encourage them to refocus their ambitions. If they truly want to succeed and propel India forward, they need to consider the broader implications of their work ethic. A 70-hour workweek might be challenging, but it’s a pathway to excellence.
**Editor:** Thank you for sharing your insights, Mr. Murthy. It’s clear that your call for dedication and hard work is driven by a passion for national progress.
**Narayana Murthy:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope more people feel inspired to push their limits—together, we can achieve great things.