Page 87 - DP Vol 21 No1_Neat

EDITOR HAS THE LAST WORD
THE PARADOX OF OVERWORK
DR. SUSHANT UMRE
Startup dentists,
much like
professionals in
other fields, often put
in seven-day work
weeks and long hours,
especially in the early
years of establishing
their practice.
Building a patient
base, managing
finances, handling
staff, and keeping
up with continuing
education all demand
relentless effort.
Why Some Choose Long Hours While Others Condemn Them
The question of how many hours a person should work each week has sparked intense debate, or
rather, outright outrage. The backlash against the call for 70 to 90-hour work weeks, suggested by
two highly successful corporate leaders, has been so overwhelming that one can’t help but wonder—
is it truly as extreme as social media makes it out to be?
When we were younger, an often- repeated line that most of us would have heard was that this
was the time to work hard, after all we had the rest of our life to enjoy ourselves. Of course, as we
discovered, the rest of our lives had no place for enjoyment. The workplace valorises hard work even
more. And curiously, it puts a premium on working beyond the mandated, paid-up-for amount.
Hard work never kills anybody or so we heard repeatedly growing up. Clearly that does not ring
through these days. It has almost been a belief across cultures that hard work in all its forms is by
definition good.
People of my generation have all worked hard, dedicating ourselves to careers, families, and dreams.
Yet, as the years pass, we often find ourselves asking, what have we truly gained? Perhaps the answer
lies not in the milestones but in the moments. The joy of a shared laugh, the peace of a quiet evening,
and the love of those around us. And, most importantly, we have all worked for and enjoyed that
feeling of achievement.
It’s the sense of achievement that becomes so fulfilling that the idea of work- life balance starts
to feel irrelevant. When work brings purpose and excitement, the hours blur, and the distinction
between work and life becomes less about balance and more about passion.
Nobody can be forced to work long hours. Yet, if you look closely, you’ll find many people doing
just that—some willingly, even enthusiastically. In the private sector, those who put in extra hours
are often rewarded better, while others may label them as workaholics or dismiss them as indifferent
to work-life balance. But, like everyone else, they make their own choices. The notion that long
working hours are exclusive to the private sector is misleading. Many senior administrative officers,
police officers (check on your local SHO), and public healthcare professionals put in gruelling
hours. Doctors, especially in public healthcare, routinely work overnight shifts, weekends, and
on emergency calls, sometimes clocking 80-100 hours a week. Similarly, bureaucrats and law
enforcement officers remain on call round the clock, handling crises, paperwork, and public service
demands.
Startup dentists, much like professionals in other fields, often put in seven-day work weeks and long
hours, especially in the early years of establishing their practice. Building a patient base, managing
finances, handling staff, and keeping up with continuing education all demand relentless effort.
Many dentists work late evenings to accommodate patients who can’t visit during regular hours.
Unlike salaried jobs, their income depends on their availability, so taking time off isn’t always an
option
Whether you’re a young dental professional just starting out or an experienced one, continuing to
work hard is key to growth, fulfilment, and success. Hard work not only sharpens your skills and
expands your knowledge, but it also brings a sense of achievement and purpose. It fuels progress,
builds confidence, and helps you stay engaged in your career, no matter what stage.
In dentistry, where new challenges and advancements are constant, dedication ensures you remain
at the top of your game and continue making a meaningful impact in the lives of your patients.
My Mantra is enjoying every moment—whether its work or leisure. Success follows those who
embrace life fully. n
Dental Practice I January-February 2025 I Vol 21 No 1 87