Striving for success through long hours at work might seem beneficial, yet it could seriously impact health, warns neurologist Dr. Sudhir Kumar. In a recent post on X, Dr. Kumar highlighted the findings of research regarding optimal work hours, the potential health risks of overworking, and strategies for achieving a healthier work-life balance.
Dr. Kumar points out that the ideal workweek for maintaining health is between 35-40 hours, based on scientific research. Exceeding this range can lead to increased health risks. Specifically, working 55 hours or more weekly is linked with a significantly higher risk of cardiovascular issues. Compared to those working 35-40 hours, individuals working 55 hours or more face a 35% greater risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of ischaemic heart disease.
Furthermore, Dr. Kumar references data from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO), which estimated that in 2016, long working hours contributed to 745,000 deaths globally due to stroke and heart disease. Beyond cardiovascular concerns, extended work hours also correlate with poor sleep, burnout, anxiety, depression, higher blood pressure, and decreased productivity. These factors can also lead to more workplace injuries and errors, alongside less time for exercise, healthy eating, and family life.
Rather than simply reducing work hours, Dr. Kumar suggests focusing on working smarter and ensuring adequate recovery. Achieving a healthy work-life balance involves several strategies: aiming for 35-40 hours of work weekly, avoiding regular 55+ hour work weeks, taking regular movement breaks, securing 7-9 hours of sleep nightly, exercising regularly, and dedicating at least one day each week to rest and personal life.
Dr. Kumar concludes with a reminder that success is more akin to a marathon than a sprint, emphasizing that safeguarding one’s health is a critical investment for a long and productive career.