70-hour workweek is a batst crazy idea: Viraj Bahl
In today’s fast-paced and competitive business world, the concept of a 70-hour workweek has become a norm for many entrepreneurs and startup founders. However, not everyone agrees with this notion. Recently, Viraj Bahl, the founder of Veeba, sparked a debate by stating that a 70-hour workweek is a “bats**t crazy idea”. In this blog post, we will delve into the reasons behind his statement and explore the pros and cons of this lengthy workweek.
During a podcast, Viraj Bahl emphasized that while it is acceptable for a founder to work 70 hours a week, it is unfair to expect the same from the rest of the team. He believes that the founder is the biggest commercial gainer and therefore, it is justified for them to put in extra hours. However, expecting the same from employees is unreasonable and can lead to burnout.
Bahl’s statement has sparked a heated debate among entrepreneurs, startup founders, and employees. While some agree with his sentiments, others believe that a 70-hour workweek is necessary to achieve success in today’s competitive market. So, what are the pros and cons of a 70-hour workweek, and is it really a “bats**t crazy idea”?
Pros of a 70-hour workweek:
- Increased productivity: Working long hours can lead to increased productivity and efficiency. When employees are focused on a specific task, they are more likely to complete it quickly and to a high standard.
- Achieving goals: A 70-hour workweek can help entrepreneurs and startup founders achieve their goals faster. With more time dedicated to work, they can focus on growing their business and expanding their customer base.
- Building relationships: Working long hours can also help entrepreneurs build strong relationships with their employees, customers, and partners. This can lead to a stronger sense of camaraderie and loyalty among team members.
Cons of a 70-hour workweek:
- Burnout: Working long hours can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. Prolonged stress can result in burnout, which can negatively impact an employee’s well-being and performance.
- Work-life balance: A 70-hour workweek can disrupt an employee’s work-life balance. With more time spent at work, there is less time for personal activities, relationships, and self-care.
- Mental health: Long work hours can negatively impact an employee’s mental health. Prolonged stress and pressure can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Alternatives to a 70-hour workweek:
- Flexible working hours: Instead of working long hours, entrepreneurs and startup founders can offer flexible working hours to their employees. This can include telecommuting, compressed workweeks, or flexible start and end times.
- Compensation: As Viraj Bahl suggested, founders can compensate their employees proportionately for their hard work. This can include additional pay, benefits, or recognition.
- Work-life balance: Entrepreneurs and startup founders can prioritize work-life balance by setting realistic goals, delegating tasks, and encouraging employees to take breaks and time off.
In conclusion, a 70-hour workweek is not a “bats**t crazy idea” for everyone. While it may be necessary for some entrepreneurs and startup founders to achieve their goals, it is not a sustainable or healthy practice for employees. By prioritizing work-life balance, flexible working hours, and fair compensation, entrepreneurs can create a positive and productive work environment that benefits both the company and its employees.
