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#Careers & Work

Why The 70-Hour Workweek Is Making A Comeback

The 70-hour workweek is resurging in Silicon Valley, raising concerns about burnout and sustainability as AI startups adopt extreme schedules.
Why The 70-Hour Workweek Is Making A Comeback
A What happened
The resurgence of the 70-hour workweek, particularly in Silicon Valley's AI startups, is raising alarms about employee burnout and sustainability. Originally rooted in China's 996 work culture, which mandated long hours for rapid economic growth, this model is now being revived in the U.S. as companies race to innovate in artificial intelligence. Startups like Rilla and Cognition are openly advertising 70 to 80-hour workweeks, while even established firms like Google suggest that 60 hours may enhance productivity. However, research indicates that extreme work hours can lead to severe health risks and diminished cognitive performance. Many younger workers are rejecting this culture in favor of work-life balance, prompting a need for employees to set boundaries and understand their rights. Companies that prioritize employee well-being and leverage AI to enhance productivity rather than extend hours may find a competitive edge in talent acquisition.

Key insights

  • 1

    Burnout Risks

    Long work hours significantly increase the risk of health issues.

  • 2

    Cultural Shift

    Younger workers prioritize work-life balance over extreme dedication.

  • 3

    Productivity Decline

    Productivity drops sharply after 50 hours of work per week.

  • 4

    AI Misuse

    AI is being used to justify longer hours instead of improving efficiency.

Takeaways

The trend of extreme work hours poses significant risks to employee health and productivity.