Amid discussions on work-life balance and the push for extended working hours by some corporate leaders, Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra has emphasized the importance of quality over quantity in work. Speaking at the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025 in New Delhi, Mahindra expressed his perspective on the ongoing debate, steering the focus toward meaningful output rather than sheer hours logged.
“I have immense respect for leaders like Narayana Murthy and others. However, I believe this debate is veering in the wrong direction,” Mahindra said. “It’s not about working 48, 70, or even 90 hours a week. What truly matters is the quality of the work being done and the impact it creates.”
Mahindra underscored that meaningful contributions can be made within shorter periods if the focus is on output. “You can change the world in 10 hours if your work is impactful,” he noted.
This perspective aligns with global trends, where countries are experimenting with shorter workweeks to enhance productivity and employee well-being.
Mahindra also highlighted the importance of holistic thinking and exposure to diverse disciplines in making wise decisions. Advocating for a broader educational foundation, he said, “Even if you’re an engineer or an MBA, you should study art and culture. It enriches decision-making by fostering a well-rounded perspective.”
He stressed that time spent with family, friends, and personal reflection is essential for bringing valuable insights into professional decision-making. “For instance, in our auto manufacturing business, we need to understand what families desire in a car. How can we do that if we’re always confined to our offices and disconnected from real life?”
Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, he added, “Open your windows, let the air in. You cannot be in a tunnel all the time.”
When asked about his own working hours, Mahindra sidestepped the question, reiterating his focus on quality over quantity. “Don’t ask me how many hours I work; ask me about the quality of my work,” he said.
Mahindra also addressed his active presence on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), describing it as a powerful business tool rather than a pastime. “I’m not on social media to make friends. I have a wonderful wife, and I enjoy spending time with her. Social media is an amazing business tool,” he remarked.
The conversation follows recent remarks by Infosys founder Narayana Murthy and L&T Chairman SN Subrahmanyan, who advocated for extended workweeks, sparking criticism over their perceived disregard for work-life balance.
Mahindra’s comments provide a counterpoint, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes meaningful work while fostering personal growth and connections. His remarks echo a growing sentiment that productivity and innovation stem not from endless hours but from thoughtful, high-quality engagement.
