President of 0 billion Shopify says some of the greatest workers he knows only clock in 40-hour weeks: ‘You don’t have to work 80 hours’
In an era where productivity is increasingly being redefined by advancements in artificial intelligence, the conversation around work-life balance has gained significant traction. Harley Finkelstein, the president of Shopify, a company valued at $200 billion, has shared insights that challenge the traditional notion of work hours. He emphasizes that high performance does not necessarily correlate with long hours.
Redefining Productivity
The rise of AI technologies like ChatGPT has transformed the workplace, prompting leaders to rethink productivity metrics. While some executives, such as Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, advocate for extreme work schedules, Finkelstein presents a contrasting viewpoint. He asserts that some of the most effective workers he knows adhere to a standard 40-hour workweek.
“You don’t have to work 80 hours a week to perform well, to be a high performer,” Finkelstein stated during an appearance on the Aspire with Emma Grede podcast. He believes that efficiency and effective time management are key components of success, rather than sheer hours logged at a desk.
The Concept of Work-Life Harmony
Finkelstein also critiques the term “work-life balance,” suggesting that it may be a misnomer. Instead, he advocates for a concept he refers to as “harmony.” This idea acknowledges that work and personal life can coexist in a way that is fulfilling and sustainable.
“There are some Saturdays where I have to work, and there are some Thursday afternoons that I go for a walk with my wife. That’s my version of harmony,” he explained. This perspective encourages individuals to tailor their work schedules to fit their personal lives, rather than the other way around.
From DJ Dreams to Entrepreneurial Success
Finkelstein’s journey to becoming the president of Shopify is marked by hard work and determination. As a teenager aspiring to be a DJ, he learned early on that creating opportunities was essential. While studying at the University of Ottawa, he launched a side business selling T-shirts to support his family, which ultimately led him to meet Tobias Lütke, the founder of Shopify.
Despite his law degree, Finkelstein took on various roles at Shopify, becoming what he describes as a “Swiss army knife” in the company. He was willing to tackle any task that needed to be done, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to the company’s mission.
Finding Personal Balance
Initially, Finkelstein worked long hours, often exceeding 80 hours a week. However, as his family grew, he recognized the need for a more balanced approach to his work life. He emphasizes that finding one’s personal balance is crucial for long-term success and satisfaction.
“Someone asked me how I know I’ve found mine. My answer? Because Monday mornings feel like Saturday mornings,” he shared. This sentiment reflects the importance of passion and purpose in one’s work, suggesting that true fulfillment comes from engaging in meaningful pursuits.
Work-Life Balance is Not Static
Finkelstein’s views on work-life balance resonate with other high-performing leaders. Cisco’s chief product officer, Jeetu Patel, for example, works extensive hours but emphasizes the importance of intentional design in achieving balance. He believes that individuals must create their own systems that accommodate both work and personal needs.
Even former President Barack Obama has commented on the nature of balance, noting that it often comes in phases. He acknowledged that periods of imbalance may be necessary to achieve excellence in various fields, including business and politics.
Conclusion
Harley Finkelstein’s insights challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding work hours and productivity. His emphasis on efficiency, harmony, and personal fulfillment offers a refreshing perspective in today’s fast-paced work environment. By focusing on what truly matters, individuals can redefine their approach to work and find success without sacrificing their well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Harley Finkelstein believes that high performance does not require working 80 hours a week. He emphasizes that some of the greatest workers he knows are highly efficient and only work 40-hour weeks.
Finkelstein suggests that ‘work-life harmony’ is a more accurate term than ‘work-life balance.’ It refers to the idea that work and personal life can coexist in a fulfilling way, allowing individuals to tailor their schedules to their personal needs.
Finkelstein started his career by selling T-shirts while studying at the University of Ottawa. This entrepreneurial venture led him to meet Tobias Lütke, the founder of Shopify, and ultimately join the company.
Note: The insights shared by Harley Finkelstein provide a valuable perspective on achieving success in a modern work environment, emphasizing the importance of efficiency and personal fulfillment over long hours.
