The phenomenon of working more than 90 hours a week has been glorified in some circles as a hallmark of dedication and ambition. However, this mindset overlooks the severe physical, emotional, and societal toll such extreme work schedules impose on individuals. In the context of India, where commuting is grueling and work-life balance is often sacrificed, the consequences of overworking become even more pronounced. One needs to delve deeply into why working 90-plus hours a week is unsustainable and harmful to human well-being, examining its impact through the lens of an employee’s struggles to juggle professional and personal life in an environment riddled with challenges. Why are we as a industry not asking dinosaurs to retire ? The objectification of an employee must end ! Employee is not a robot or a number! ( even though for you it is, on an excel sheet, which you see only when your targets are not being met !)
The glorification of extreme work schedules has often been perpetuated by high-profile figures who equate long hours with success. For instance, tech magnate Elon Musk’s infamous statement advocating 80- to 100-hour workweeks has fueled debates globally. While proponents argue that such schedules are essential for achieving extraordinary results, they often disregard the human cost. In India, this narrative resonates in corporate hubs like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi, where the pressure to perform is immense. Employees, particularly in industries like IT, consulting, and finance, often find themselves working far beyond the official 40-hour week. This trend is exacerbated by societal expectations, where professional success is often equated with personal worth.
One of the most immediate and apparent consequences of overwork is physical exhaustion. Human bodies are not designed to endure prolonged periods of stress and exertion without adequate rest. Chronic overworking leads to a cascade of health problems, including insomnia, hypertension, digestive issues, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. A report by the World Health Organization highlights that individuals who work more than 55 hours per week face a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of heart disease. The biological mechanisms underlying these risks are clear: prolonged stress triggers the release of cortisol and adrenaline, hormones that, in excess, harm the cardiovascular system, impair immunity, and disrupt metabolic functions. For Indian employees, the added burden of long commutes—often through congested and polluted urban environments—compounds these health risks, leaving little time or energy for self-care.
Mental health is another significant casualty of excessive working hours. The relentless demands of a 90-hour workweek leave little room for relaxation or recovery, leading to chronic stress, burnout, and anxiety. In India, where mental health awareness is still emerging, the stigma surrounding psychological issues often prevents individuals from seeking help. A study conducted by Deloitte in 2022 found that nearly 80% of Indian professionals reported experiencing mental health challenges, yet only a fraction sought professional support. The consequences of untreated mental health issues extend beyond the individual, affecting workplace productivity, family dynamics, and societal well-being.
The societal implications of overwork are particularly troubling in India, where traditional family structures and cultural norms place a high value on interpersonal relationships. Employees working 90-hour weeks often struggle to fulfill familial obligations or participate in community life, leading to strained relationships and a sense of isolation. For many, the pressure to excel professionally comes at the cost of personal milestones, such as spending time with children, caring for aging parents, or nurturing marital relationships. The emotional toll of such sacrifices is profound, leaving individuals feeling unfulfilled despite professional achievements.
Commuting—a daily ordeal for millions of Indian workers—further exacerbates the challenges of overwork. In cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Delhi, employees often spend two to four hours a day navigating traffic or waiting for overcrowded public transport. This not only eats into their personal time but also adds to physical and mental fatigue. The sheer effort required to commute leaves workers drained even before they begin their workday, reducing their efficiency and increasing their susceptibility to burnout. Moreover, the environmental and infrastructural challenges of Indian cities—such as pollution, unsafe public transport, and inadequate urban planning—compound the stress associated with commuting.
The economic structure and labor policies in India also contribute to the prevalence of overwork. Unlike many developed nations, India lacks stringent regulations governing work hours and overtime for white-collar workers. While labor laws provide protections for blue-collar employees, professionals in industries like IT and consulting often find themselves excluded from such safeguards. This legal gap allows employers to impose unreasonable work demands without accountability, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation. The lack of union representation for white-collar workers further exacerbates their vulnerability, leaving them with little recourse to challenge unfair work practices.
Cultural factors also play a significant role in normalizing excessive work hours in India. The deeply ingrained work ethic, coupled with societal expectations to “prove” one’s worth through professional success, creates an environment where overwork is not only accepted but often celebrated. This cultural mindset is particularly pronounced among young professionals, who face immense pressure to climb the corporate ladder quickly. The fear of falling behind or being perceived as “lazy” drives many to accept unsustainable workloads, even at the cost of their health and well-being.
The economic pressures faced by Indian families further contribute to the culture of overwork. Rising costs of living, coupled with aspirations for a better quality of life, compel many employees to work long hours in pursuit of higher earnings. For middle-class families, the desire to provide quality education for children, care for aging parents, and secure a comfortable retirement often translates into relentless financial pressure. This creates a vicious cycle, where individuals feel trapped in demanding jobs with little hope of respite.
Technology, while a boon in many ways, has also contributed to the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. The ubiquity of smartphones and internet connectivity means that employees are often expected to be available around the clock. In India, where many companies operate in global markets, the need to coordinate with international teams across time zones further exacerbates this issue. The result is a culture of “always-on” work, where employees find it difficult to disconnect, even during weekends or holidays. This constant connectivity not only increases stress but also deprives individuals of the opportunity to recharge and recover.
The consequences of overwork are not limited to individual employees; they also have significant implications for organizations and society at large. Burnout, absenteeism, and high employee turnover are common outcomes of unsustainable work practices, leading to decreased productivity and increased costs for employers. Moreover, the health consequences of overwork place a significant burden on healthcare systems, while the societal costs—such as strained family relationships and reduced community engagement—undermine social cohesion.
Addressing the issue of overwork requires a multifaceted approach that involves employers, policymakers, and individuals. Organizations must recognize the value of work-life balance and implement policies that prioritize employee well-being. This includes setting reasonable work hours, providing opportunities for flexible work arrangements, and fostering a supportive workplace culture. Employers should also invest in mental health resources and promote open discussions about stress and burnout, reducing the stigma associated with seeking help.
Senior management and policy makers have a crucial role to play in addressing the systemic factors that contribute to overwork. Strengthening labor laws to include protections for white-collar workers, enforcing limits on work hours, and ensuring fair compensation for overtime are essential steps. Additionally, investing in infrastructure to improve commuting conditions—such as expanding public transport networks and reducing traffic congestion—can significantly enhance the quality of life for urban workers.
On an individual level, employees must advocate for their own well-being by setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support when needed. While this can be challenging in a culture that values hard work and sacrifice, it is essential for long-term health and happiness. Raising awareness about the dangers of overwork and promoting a cultural shift towards valuing quality of life over sheer productivity are critical for creating a sustainable future.
In conclusion, the practice of working more than 70 or 90 hours a week is not only unsustainable but also deeply harmful to individuals and society. It will not build a nation – it may build a nation of zombies. The physical, mental, and social costs of overwork far outweigh any perceived benefits, particularly in the Indian context, where additional challenges like grueling commutes and economic pressures compound the issue. By addressing the systemic, cultural, and individual factors that perpetuate the culture of overwork, we can create a more balanced and fulfilling work environment for everyone. It is time to redefine success, not as an endless pursuit of professional achievements but as a harmonious balance between work, health, and personal fulfillment.
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