Work Culture, Productivity, and Health
Elon Musk's Grueling 120-Hour Work Week and Its Implications
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Elon Musk revealed in February that he and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) team work 120-hour weeks, far exceeding a standard 40-hour workweek. This leaves only 48 hours for other essential activities like eating, hygiene, and sleep. Even under ideal conditions, this schedule allows just 6.8 hours of sleep per night, falling below the recommended seven hours, potentially causing serious health risks like heart disease, stroke, and depression as noted by the Mayo Clinic and CDC.
Musk’s demanding work ethic—he previously lived in Tesla factories for three years—highlights his relentless drive. However, studies, such as one from Stanford, suggest working beyond 50 hours a week diminishes productivity, with little output improvement between 70 and 56 hours. The WHO also warns of increased health hazards associated with extended working hours. Despite these concerns, Musk has acknowledged the difficulty of managing his multiple ventures but has not addressed criticism directly.
Musk’s demanding work ethic—he previously lived in Tesla factories for three years—highlights his relentless drive. However, studies, such as one from Stanford, suggest working beyond 50 hours a week diminishes productivity, with little output improvement between 70 and 56 hours. The WHO also warns of increased health hazards associated with extended working hours. Despite these concerns, Musk has acknowledged the difficulty of managing his multiple ventures but has not addressed criticism directly.