Key facts
- An Indian professional working in Norway was reprimanded by his boss for working on a Saturday and canceling a vacation.
- The boss stated that vacations are mandatory and overworking sets a poor example for younger employees.
- The professional, Vinod, contrasted this with the work culture he experienced in India, where such dedication might be celebrated.
- Vinod reflected that his previous mindset of constant work had hidden costs.
- He believes Scandinavian nations uniquely prioritize work-life balance and employee well-being.
An Indian professional, Vinod, who relocated to Norway, found his dedication to working extra hours and sacrificing personal time met with a reprimand from his Norwegian boss. Vinod had habitually worked on weekends, skipped breaks, and canceled vacations to meet project deadlines, a work ethic ingrained from his experience in India.
During a meeting, Vinod's boss informed him that such behavior was unacceptable. The boss emphasized that vacations were not optional but mandatory and that his actions of overworking and being constantly available set a poor example for junior employees. This perspective contrasted sharply with Vinod's prior understanding, where such commitment might have been lauded.
The experience led Vinod to re-evaluate his relationship with work, recognizing the anxiety and hidden costs associated with a relentless hustle culture. He clarified that while he still values hard work, he distinguishes it from work driven by guilt, fear, or silent suffering. Vinod noted that Scandinavian countries stand out for their strong emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being.