Is the prospect of working 70 hours feasible?

Does the human body cope up with such stress

What is the formula required?

Infosys founder Narayan Murthy’s exhortation to the younger generation to work 70 hours a week with a view to generate more productivity has set tongues wagging. 

While there are a few who have thrown their weight behind him, there are others who have dissented, stressing on how such long working hours can be counterproductive to the younger generation. Medical experts too have made no bones about expressing their antithetical views on the matter. 

24 hours per day (as far as I know)
If you work 6 days a week – 12h per day
Remaining 12h
8 hours sleep
4 hours remain
In a city like Bengaluru
2 hours on road
2 hours remain – Brush, poop, bathe, eat
No time to socialise
No time to talk to family
No time to exercise… https://t.co/dDTKAPfJf8

— Dr Deepak Krishnamurthy (@DrDeepakKrishn1) October 27, 2023

But what does science say in this regard? 

Scientifically, longer working hours can yield greater productivity in the initial stages. But as days wear on, fatigue and burnout can set in, thereby hampering productivity. 

It should also be noted that longer working hours can be detrimental to the health of an individual. Prolonged exposure at the office can lead to mental stress, physical ailments. Relaxation is essential for a healthy living. 

Creative thinking is a critical part of a good work culture. However, coerced labour can be a commentary in the negative. 

Balancing work and professional life goes a long way in ensuring a healthy life. By staying long hours, it can be compromised with. 

The Infosys founder’s statement may have been made with a good intent, but practically, a lot of challenges exist.