Adopting a balanced work culture in India is not just a necessity for employee well-being but a strategic move toward sustainable economic growth. The idea of working a 70-hour week has recently come under scrutiny, sparked by contrasting viewpoints from Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy and Zoho Corporation CEO Sridhar Vembu. While Murthy advocates for rigorous work hours to drive economic growth, Vembu questions whether this model is sustainable or even desirable. As India stands at a critical juncture in its economic development, it’s worth asking: Is such relentless effort the only way forward, or can success be achieved without sacrificing personal well-being and societal stability?
The 70-Hour Workweek: Lessons from East Asia
The notion of long workweeks as a driver of economic progress is not new. East Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and China have historically relied on intensive labor to achieve remarkable economic growth. However, this relentless focus on work has come at a cost.
In Japan, the term “karoshi,” or death from overwork, underscores the physical and emotional toll of extended work hours. South Korea, which once thrived on an intense work ethic, now faces some of the lowest birth rates globally. These nations serve as cautionary tales, showing that while overwork may lead to short-term gains, it can also result in long-term societal challenges, such as demographic crises and an aging population.
The question we must ask is whether the lessons from these countries are applicable to India—and if so, what can be done differently.
What Does Success Cost?
The cost of a relentless work culture goes beyond physical exhaustion; it permeates every facet of life. Here are some of the key areas impacted:
1. Health
Extended work hours have been linked to increased stress, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health issues such as burnout and depression. Studies show that consistently working more than 55 hours a week increases the risk of stroke and other serious conditions.
2. Relationships
A 70-hour workweek leaves little room for family, friends, and personal connections. Over time, strained relationships can lead to isolation and decreased overall life satisfaction.
3. Societal Impacts
On a macro level, an overworked population can lead to lower fertility rates and an aging workforce. Countries like Japan and South Korea are now grappling with declining populations, which threaten their long-term economic stability.
These outcomes beg the question: Is economic success worth these sacrifices? Vembu’s answer is a resounding no.
A Balanced Perspective on Growth
Sridhar Vembu offers a refreshing counterpoint to the 70-hour workweek philosophy. He argues that economic growth doesn’t require everyone to push themselves to the brink. Instead, he proposes a model where:
- 2-5% of the population: This small segment can take on high-intensity work to drive innovation and progress.
- The majority: A larger share of the workforce can focus on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, contributing meaningfully without overextending themselves.
This model is not just humane but also practical. Studies show that productivity declines after 50 hours of work per week, making extended work hours less effective over time. A balanced approach can optimize productivity while preserving health and happiness.
Why India Must Choose Wisely
India stands at a pivotal moment in its demographic evolution, presenting both opportunities and challenges. To harness the potential of its youthful population and avoid the pitfalls experienced by East Asian nations, India must adopt policies and corporate practices that promote balanced development and prevent employee burnout.
As of 2023, India has become the world’s most populous country, surpassing China, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion. Notably, India’s median age is 28 years, significantly younger than China’s median age of 39. This youthful demographic offers a substantial workforce poised to drive economic growth. (Pew Research Center)
However, India’s fertility rate has been declining, reaching a total fertility rate (TFR) of 2.0 during 2019-2021, down from 2.2 in 2015-16. This decline aligns with the replacement level fertility rate, indicating a stabilization of population growth.(PWOnly IAS)
East Asian countries like Japan, South Korea, and China experienced rapid economic growth in the latter half of the 20th century, partly due to a demographic dividend characterized by a high proportion of working-age individuals. However, these nations now face challenges stemming from aging populations and low birth rates. For instance, Japan’s median age is 48.4 years, and its population has been declining since 2010. Similarly, China’s working-age population peaked in 2014 and has been decreasing since, raising concerns about future economic sustainability. (The Diplomat)
These demographic shifts have led to increased dependency ratios, straining social security systems and healthcare infrastructure. The rapid transition from high to low fertility, coupled with extended life expectancy, has resulted in a shrinking workforce supporting a growing elderly population.
The Imperative for Balanced Development
To avoid similar challenges, India must prioritize policies that ensure sustainable economic growth without compromising the well-being of its workforce. Key strategies include:
- Promoting Work-Life Balance: High levels of employee burnout have been reported in India, with studies indicating that more than 86% of employees are either struggling or suffering. ( SHRM)
Implementing policies that encourage reasonable working hours, adequate rest periods, and mental health support can enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. - Implementing Supportive Corporate Policies: Some Indian companies have begun adopting measures to combat employee burnout. For example, Axis Bank introduced a ‘7Up’ policy, encouraging employees to complete their work by 7 PM to prevent additional tasks at the end of the day. This initiative contributed to a reduction in the attrition rate from 34.8% in FY23 to 28.8% in FY24.( Business Standard)
- Investing in Employee Well-being: Organizations are recognizing the importance of mental health and well-being. The rise of remote work and increased connectivity have led to alarming rates of burnout among employees. Implementing wellness programs and promoting a culture that values employee well-being are essential steps toward mitigating burnout.( Consultants Review)
- Encouraging Flexible Work Arrangements: Flexible work policies can help employees balance professional and personal responsibilities, reducing stress and improving job satisfaction. Such arrangements are becoming increasingly important in the modern work environment.( Economic Times)
By prioritizing these strategies, India can grow without falling into the trap of demographic decline and social unrest.
Rethinking Work Culture
A shift in mindset is required at both individual and organizational levels. Here’s how we can collectively redefine work culture:
For Businesses:
- Adopt outcome-based metrics: Focus on results rather than hours worked.
- Encourage regular breaks: Promote work habits that prevent burnout and boost productivity.
- Support employee well-being: Offer programs for mental health, wellness, and professional development.
For Individuals:
- Set boundaries: Learn to say no to excessive demands and prioritize personal time.
- Focus on efficiency: Work smarter, not harder, by streamlining tasks and avoiding distractions.
- Advocate for balance: Push for policies that promote a healthier work environment.
To Sum Up
The debate over the 70-hour workweek raises fundamental questions about the kind of society we want to build. While relentless effort has historically driven economic growth, it’s clear that the costs can outweigh the benefits. As Vembu rightly notes, balanced growth is not only possible but essential to prevent societal and demographic crises.
The time has come to redefine success. Instead of measuring progress by hours worked, let’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and well-being. After all, a thriving society is one where economic prosperity and personal fulfillment go hand in hand.