Billionaire Dell Technologies CEO Michael Dell has a message for today’s employees: “Don’t work harder, work smarter and remember to laugh.”
During an episode of “In Good Company,” Dell shared insights about his business philosophy and personal approach to work, emphasizing the importance of balancing professional dedication and personal well-being. “I learned a long time ago that profits diminish with the number of hours you work in a day,” Dell said, challenging the hustle culture that pervades many technology 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 waking up before dawn to exercise. “You won’t find me at nightcap,” he joked. “I’m about to fall asleep.”
Our advice goes beyond your personal daily routine. He believes humor in the workplace is important, arguing that “if you can’t laugh, joke, or play pranks on people, you’re doing something wrong.” This playful approach complements his extensive guidance for young professionals. “Experiment, take risks, fail, find hard problems, do things of value, be fearless, and be bold.”
This tech CEO’s philosophy boils down to a simple principle: finding the right mix of work, play, and relaxation. For us, success isn’t just about endless hours of work, it’s about maintaining a balanced and fun approach to your career.