Between a 21-year-old graduate going viral for crying over a 9-5 job, and Narayana Murthy’s 70-hour work week, is there a middle path for Gen Z?

Not to forget there are countries with stipulated 8.5 hour work hours like Mexico (41 hours), Costa Rica, (46 hours), and Colombia (38), even as some other countries like Japan, Spain, Iceland, and Belgium to name a few continue to toil with a four-day work week policy too. Amidst this, we paused to wonder whether there is a middle path (read: the golden middle way) between these extremes considering the young workforce is also increasingly being exposed to a flexible schedule with work-from-home or hybrid set-up in a post-Covid workplace, which runs beyond the traditional work from office culture?

Wellness experts suggest it is paramount to realise that the challenges we face today are different from those in the past, so it’s essential to assess what works for us and disregard what doesn’t.

“It’s important to pay attention to the insights shared by successful individuals and, if their advice doesn’t resonate with us, it’s perfectly fine to let it go. Instead of harshly criticising them, we should consider that they’ve built their brand and gained experience through hard work, which may have involved long hours and immense dedication,” shared Arouba Kabir, emotional and mental health professional, founder, Enso Wellness.

Somewhere between the young population feeling overwhelmed by a 9-to-5 gig and Narayana Murthy advocating for a 70-hour workweek, there’s a sweet spot right in the middle (Source: Unsplash)

Affirming, Saurabh Bothra, CEO, Habuild shared that both perspectives are worth acknowledging. “In today’s world where technology and remote work are changing the game, there are different ways to be productive. It’s not just about punching a clock for 12 hours straight. It’s about getting a job done efficiently and effectively,” Bothra told indianexpress.com.

He also explained that most Gen Z population is not a fan of the regular 9-to-5 jobs. “They want flexibility, they want to work on their terms and they dream of a life where they don’t need to clock in many hours a day. I don’t think it’s because they are lazy when it comes to work or they don’t want to contribute – it’s about valuing their time and interests,” Bothra expressed.

So, what can be done?

Dr Ankita Priydarshini, consultant psychiatrist and behavioural medicine and founder and clinical head – Thriving Minds, Dehradun listed down a few measures

*Embrace a work-life balance that works for you, one that respects your personal time and values your professional growth.
*Seek careers that offer flexibility, respect boundaries, and allow yourself to thrive holistically.
“Remember, the journey to success is not a sprint but a marathon. It’s the small, consistent steps that lead to sustainable achievement,” shared Dr Ankita.
*Prioritise self-care, pursue your passions and maintain a work-life equilibrium that sustains your mental health and well-being.

Somewhere between the young population feeling overwhelmed by a 9-to-5 gig and Narayana Murthy advocating for a 70-hour workweek, there’s a sweet spot right in the middle.

And it is all about picking up some clever habits, mentioned Bothra.

According to Bothra, if one wants to maintain high energy levels to make sure their work-life balance is not getting affected, they need to keep three things in mind :

*Get yourself moving! Exercise boosts energy by increasing blood flow and releasing feel-good hormones.
*Check your micronutrients; they help your body process energy efficiently, and they’re found in vitamins and minerals. If you often feel tired and low, get your blood test done.
*Get enough sleep to recharge your body and mind, so you wake up fresh and energised.

“Your routine is like a road map that will help you get past the day without getting lost. It helps you juggle work, family, and your hobbies with ease,” Bothra asserted.

He also stressed that routine, which creates a sense of predictability such that the mind and body know what to expect, reduces stress. “When work has its time slot, you’re better at managing family time, relaxation, and other hobbies! Plus, a routine will help you build consistent and long-lasting habits,” Bothra affirmed.

Your priorities can make a difference (Source: Pixabay)

It is more about planning and executing rather than feeling directionless, urged Seema Rekha, managing director, Antarmanh Consulting.

“Work-life balance is not about working 9 to 5, it is about work-life management. It is about prioritisation, time management, and setting the right goals. Though the new business world sounds more inclusive it is fast-moving. And it’s like a water wheel, you yield it only if it moves,” said Seema.

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