A London-based entrepreneur’s simple LinkedIn post about the importance of leaving the office on time has struck a chord with professionals online.
In his reflection, Dan Murray reminded readers that “work is a never-ending process, and your time is valuable.” While acknowledging the importance of jobs, he stressed they should not become our sole identity, or come at the cost of health, happiness, and relationships.
Murray pointed out that extra hours rarely equal extra productivity, and that research shows efficiency drops sharply after the eight-hour mark. Putting in long days may look like commitment in the short term, he argued, but it is neither sustainable nor healthy.
What resonated most was his emphasis on boundaries. Leaving on time, he said, isn’t shirking responsibility—it’s about protecting energy, relationships, and balance. It creates space to recharge, pursue hobbies, and spend quality time with loved ones, ultimately leading to greater well-being.
He closed with a reminder that self-care benefits everyone: “When you care for yourself outside of work, you’ll be a better contributor to your team overall. Don’t sacrifice your well-being for work.”
The post went viral and netizens reacted to the post. An agreeing individual wrote, “Leaving on time isn’t about working less, it’s about living more. A well-rested you will always bring more value than an overworked one.”
Another user wrote, “I love this post! Thanks for the reminder that work is a marathon, not a sprint. Our health and happiness depend on it.”
A third person said, “Love this… long hours might look like commitment, but they often erode the very qualities that make work great. Boundaries, rest, and time for life outside the office are what keep people energised and creative.”