70-hour work debate: Zoho CEO calls for balance over burnout

70-hour work debate: Zoho CEO calls for balance over burnout
27 Dec 2024

Sridhar Vembu, the CEO of software giant Zoho Corporation, has thrown his weight behind the idea of a 70-hour work week. The idea was first introduced by Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy.

In a long social media post, Vembu has raised concerns about the potential consequences of such an intense work schedule, warning against what he terms "demographic suicide."

Vembu cites East Asian countries as examples
International perspective

Vembu acknowledged the economic successes achieved by East Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, and China, which often demand long working hours from their citizens.

However, he also pointed out the demographic challenges these nations now face, including declining birth rates and aging populations.

He stated that while hard work is necessary for development, it should not come at the cost of personal well-being and societal health.

'Only a small population should adopt intense work habits'
Balanced approach

Vembu posed two critical questions regarding the necessity of extreme work hours: Is such hard work essential for economic development? And is this development worth the price of a lonely old age for many?

His response to these questions was clear; he believes that only a small percentage of the workforce—around 2-5%—needs to adopt such intense work habits to drive broad-based economic progress.

The majority should be able to maintain a healthy work-life balance without sacrificing their quality of life.

Vembu warns against replicating China's demographic decline

Murthy believes that India's workforce must embrace longer hours to match the productivity levels of more developed economies.

However, Vembu's argument highlights a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and well-being in the workplace.

He cautioned against replicating China's model of economic growth if it leads to significant demographic decline.

Vembu pointed out that India is already experiencing low replacement-level fertility rates in certain regions, which could worsen if the country follows a similar trajectory as East Asia.

'Development without demographic suicide'
Final thoughts

Vembu ended his post by saying, "I do believe we can develop without needing to work ourselves to demographic suicide."

As India continues to develop economically, finding a balance between productivity and quality of life will be crucial.

Vembu's insights suggest that sustainable growth does not have to come at the expense of personal happiness or demographic stability.