Shopify CEO Tobi Lutke, once an advocate for a balanced work-life approach, has reversed his stance, now admitting he works over 10 hours daily, including weekends. The shift comes amid a broader trend in Silicon Valley, where efficiency and performance are being prioritized over flexible work schedules.
Lutke’s Changing View on Work Hours
Back in 2019, Lutke made headlines when he tweeted that working 80-hour weeks was unnecessary for success. He stated that he rarely worked more than 40 hours a week while building Shopify, valued at around $125 billion. At the time, he emphasized the importance of sleep and personal time, claiming he never worked overnight shifts. His tweet gained attention from major media outlets like CNBC and Business Insider. However, that tweet has since been deleted, reflecting a major shift in his mindset.
Lutke’s New Work Ethic
Recently, Lutke clarified his current work habits on X (formerly Twitter), contradicting his earlier statements. “I’m at home for dinner, but I work at least 10 or so hours a day and a lot of the weekend,” he posted earlier this month, warning against the misconception that he follows a relaxed work schedule.
His change in approach aligns with a growing trend in Silicon Valley, where employees face increasing pressure to perform. Tech giants like Meta and Microsoft have been enforcing stricter performance standards, with Meta cutting 4,000 jobs and Microsoft laying off 2,000 employees this year, citing performance issues.
Lutke’s shift highlights the evolving expectations in the tech industry, where leaders and employees alike are being pushed to work harder as companies navigate economic pressures and increased competition.
Conclusion
Lutke’s transformation from a work-life balance advocate to a long-hour work culture supporter reflects the shifting dynamics in the tech world. As Silicon Valley’s biggest firms tighten their expectations, it remains to be seen whether other tech leaders will follow suit or push back against the growing demand for extended work hours.
Sources By Agencies
