Archive · 3 Dec 2025
Jeetu Patel: Indian-Origin Cisco Executive Balances 18-Hour Workdays
Jeetu Patel is an Indian-origin executive at Cisco who works very long hours, about 18 hours a day, every day.
He has a few simple rules to help him balance work and life.
First, he doesn't have any meetings before 9 a.m.
so he can plan his day.
Second, he always makes time for his family, even if he's in an important meeting.
Third, he exercises a little bit every day to stay healthy.
These rules help him stay focused and grounded, even with a very busy job.
He also took time off to care for his mother when she was sick, showing that balance is about adjusting to what matters most at different times.
Jeetu Patel is a top product leader at Cisco, shaping the company’s product direction and strategy.
He works 18 hours a day, 7 days a week, due to his global responsibilities.
Patel follows three key rules: no work meetings before 9 a.m., family time cannot be interrupted, and daily exercise.
He prioritizes planning and thinking in the morning to focus on important tasks.
Patel took time off to care for his mother when she was unwell, showing flexibility in his work-life balance.
- Who
- Jeetu Patel, an Indian-origin executive at Cisco
- What
- A top product leader managing Cisco’s product direction, strategy, and innovation
- When
- Works 18 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Where
- At Cisco, a global networking and software company
- Why
- To manage his demanding role while maintaining work-life balance
- Name
- Jeetu Patel
- Company
- Cisco
- Role
- Top Product Leader
- Work Hours
- 18 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Key Rule 1
- No work meetings before 9 a.m.
- Key Rule 2
- Family time cannot be interrupted
- Key Rule 3
- Daily exercise for 20–30 minutes