Simon Cowell says Gen Z won't stop taking weekend calls

In recent times, Simon Cowell, a prominent British television producer and panelist, has taken significant steps to improve his work-life balance. This transformation followed a lengthy period during which he identified his workaholic tendencies, particularly in the wake of the passing of his mother in 2015. His dedication to his work resulted in sleepless nights and a demanding schedule that often stretched into the early morning hours. During a podcast appearance on 'Diary of a CEO' in June, Cowell revealed that he had made notable lifestyle changes, such as refraining from working on Fridays and prioritizing sleep as a crucial component of his well-being. He explained that after years of working excessively, he came to the realization that a four-day work week could yield the same level of productivity as a traditional five-day week. He emphasized that people should not feel compelled to maintain a five-day work schedule and suggested that the additional day often does not enhance productivity. In the same podcast, Cowell expressed his belief that weekends should be free from work-related calls and emails, stating that if an employee, particularly a younger one, chose not to answer calls during weekends, he would be less inclined to invest in their potential for success. His comments highlight a generational divide in work ethics, with Cowell radiating skepticism towards Gen Z work habits, which he partially attributes to their seeming disconnection from traditional work expectations. He believes that while everyone should work to achieve their goals, it shouldn't come at the expense of personal well-being or happiness. Cowell offered candid insights on sleep, noting his need for ten hours a night compared to the more common four-hour schedules adopted by many high-achieving executives. Aside from altering his weekly work structure, Cowell made the unconventional choice to limit his smartphone use, preferring to keep a phone in his car and stepping back from constant connectivity. He reflected on the improved happiness he experienced during periods when he was disconnected from his devices, reinforcing his stance on the benefits of reducing digital distractions. By adopting this more relaxed approach to life and work, Cowell revealed that he has very few regrets regarding his career decisions, apart from concerns about ownership in artistic projects. Through these adjustments, Cowell not only aims to enhance his own quality of life but also advocates for a broader understanding of work-life balance within his industry. He insists that productivity should not merely be measured by hours spent working but rather by the quality of work produced during those hours. This bold new perspective invites a reevaluation of traditional work structures and opens the floor for conversations about efficiency, well-being, and the nature of work itself, especially as he highlights that enjoying life is just as important, if not more so, than relentless work commitments.