I Don’t Work 90-Hours a Week (And I Get Things Done)

Top of the morning, Dear Subscribers,

In this edition of The K(Now) Wellness, we’re flipping the script.

When R. Subrahmanyan, chairman of Larsen & Toubro, suggested that a 90-hour work week was the hallmark of a dedicated employee, it set off a firestorm of reactions. But instead of jumping on the bandwagon, we've decided to flip that notion on its head. In this article, we'll show you how stepping away from the grind might just be the key to achieving more—not less.

Ready to turn your work-life equation on its head?

Let’s dive in.

I once subscribed to the idea that the more hours you logged, the more successful you became. The earlier you got to the office, the later you left, the more important you were. I crunched numbers, sprinted through meetings, and lived for that sweet, sweet feeling of total burnout. But then, I discovered balance. And pole fitness.

1. Focus > Number of Hours

I work smarter, not harder. I’ve learned that the magic isn’t in the number of hours; it’s in the quality of the hours. Studies back this up—research by The American Psychological Association shows that working longer hours leads to fatigue and reduced cognitive performance. In fact, after 50 hours of work per week, productivity drops dramatically.

Now I spend more time focusing on the tasks that actually move the needle and less time being busy.

And guess what? I’m more productive than ever.

So, what did I do with all that extra time?

2. Enter Pole Fitness: The Game-Changer

Pole fitness has completely flipped my world upside down (in a good way, of course). It’s a full-body workout that not only strengthens muscles I didn’t know I had but also sharpens my focus, enhances my flexibility, and boosts my productivity at work.

But here’s the kicker—every time I climb that pole, I learn something new. The learning curve is steep, and let’s be honest, I’ve had my fair share of bruises. But the thing is, pole teaches me patience and persistence. Have you tried staying upside down on a pole while gravity’s trying to knock you down? Yeah, I do that. And it’s glorious.

Research suggests that physical activity like pole fitness can boost memory and improve mood by releasing endorphins, our body's natural “feel-good” chemicals. Studies show that exercise can enhance brain function by up to 20%, keeping me sharp and focused at work.

3. Pole = Brain Gains

Pole fitness has become my brain workout. Pole is all about learning new moves, improving your balance, and being strategic about your next step.

It’s like a mental puzzle with an athletic twist.

Every time I practice a new move, I’m engaging my brain in a way that makes me more agile in the boardroom.

It’s not just about strength—it’s about sharpening my focus, improving my balance, and being strategic about my next step. And here’s the science behind it: Engaging in complex physical activities (like pole fitness) has been proven to increase neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to form new neural connections.

A study published in Psychological Science found that people who engage in physical challenges demonstrate enhanced problem-solving skills and creativity. It’s basically a workout for my brain and body—winning!

4. Work-Life Balance? I’ve Got It

Look, I’m not saying that the corporate grind is bad. I get it. I used to live in it, breathing in deadlines like oxygen. But what if I told you that when you stop chasing the 90-hour work week, you might actually find success in a more balanced, sustainable way? Research from Stanford University backs me up here: Overworking doesn’t lead to more output. In fact, the study found that productivity drops significantly after 50 hours of work per week, and the most productive employees work in bursts with regular breaks.

My pole practice has taught me how to make time for the things that matter without sacrificing work.

I’ve found that being well-rested and energised from my workouts actually makes me more focused at work.

I’m more creative, more focused, and dare I say, more happy when I allow myself to prioritise health and balance.

5. The Truth About Productivity: It’s All About Focus

I’m sure you’ve heard the myth that working long hours equals productivity. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t.

Studies from the Harvard Business Review confirm that when we work too much, it’s not just our energy that suffers—it’s our focus. After 55 hours of work a week, our cognitive functions start to decline, leading to more errors, slower decision-making, and worse work quality.

The real secret to productivity is focus.

Pole has given me the discipline to get the job done in fewer hours, leaving me with more time for rest and recreation.

6. So, What’s the Secret?

The big takeaway from all of this?

Balance.

It’s not about working more; it’s about working smarter, taking breaks, and investing in activities that enhance your well-being. Science shows that taking breaks and doing something enjoyable—even something physically challenging like pole fitness—can boost creativity and problem-solving skills.

When you make time for what fuels you outside of work, you’ll discover that you’re more engaged, more productive, and more fulfilled in every area of life.

And if you ever find yourself wondering how to make the most of your day, here’s a suggestion: Take up something ridiculously fun and challenging. Your world might just get flipped upside down in the best way possible.

The Science of Balance

We often believe we bring the best of ourselves to our jobs. But to truly do so, do we even know who we are?

Who are we beyond our job titles and roles? What defines us outside the labels of ‘employee,’ ‘manager,’ ‘leader’, ‘CEO’, or ‘Chairman’?

Have we ever paused to think about who WE are—not as others see us, but as we truly are?

I asked myself this question last year when I realised how much of my identity was wrapped up in what I did for a living. For the longest time, I defined myself by my job title and the validation that came from professional achievements. But as I reflected, I discovered that I was—and am—so much more.

Can I describe exactly who I am? Honestly, no. And I don’t think anyone can, because we’re constantly evolving—consciously or unconsciously—with each passing day.

But here’s what I’ve learned about myself: I am more than my work, and the parts of my life outside of work aren’t distractions—they’re essential. They fuel my creativity, sharpen my focus, and enhance my productivity.

So, I’ll ask you again: Who are you outside of what you do for a living? And when was the last time you truly allowed yourself the space to find out?