Michael Dell, the billionaire CEO Dell Technologies, has a message for today’s workforce: work smarter, not harder, and don’t forget to laugh.
In an episode of the “In Good Company”, Dell shared insights into his management philosophy and personal approach to work, emphasizing the importance of balancing professional dedication with personal well-being. “I learned a long time ago that there’s a diminishing return to the number of hours worked in any given day,” Dell stated, challenging the hustle culture prevalent in many tech companies.
The 59-year-old tech mogul, whose company generated $88 billion in revenue last year, practices what he preaches. He maintains a strict sleep schedule, going to bed around 8:30 or 9 p.m. and rising before dawn to exercise. “You won’t find me at the nightcap,” he quipped. “I’ll be asleep.”
Dell’s advice extends beyond personal routine. He believes workplace humor is crucial, asserting that if you “can’t laugh, joke around, play tricks on people, you’re doing it wrong.” This playful approach complements his broader guidance for young professionals: “Experiment, take risks, fail, find difficult problems, do something valuable, don’t be afraid, and be bold.”
The tech CEO’s philosophy boils down to a simple principle: finding the right mixture of working, playing, and relaxing. For Dell, success isn’t just about endless hours of work, but about maintaining a balanced, enjoyable approach to one’s career.