Kevin O’Leary Rejects Silicon Valley Hustle Culture as ‘Stupid’

Shark Tank investor Kevin O’Leary is pushing back against Silicon Valley’s obsession with extreme work schedules, calling the practice fundamentally counterproductive. In a recent Instagram video, O’Leary dismissed the popular notion that working 18 hours daily demonstrates commitment, labeling it “stupid” and a misunderstanding of genuine high performance.

The Reality of Peak Performance

O’Leary emphasized that success requires basic wellness fundamentals. “You’ve got to get some sleep, you have to eat well and you have to stay focused. That’s how you’re successful,” he explained. The investor stressed that peak decision-making happens immediately after waking, when the mind is sharp and energy levels peak. He added a stark warning for struggling founders: “If you show up looking half-dead, I’m not investing. You’re not a hero, you’re a liability.”

A Growing Problem in Tech

O’Leary’s message directly addresses a critical issue plaguing the industry. Tech giants like Google and Meta demand 60-70 hour workweeks from employees, while AI startups have promoted the “996” schedule—9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days weekly. This trend originated in China but has gained traction in Silicon Valley despite China banning it in 2021.

Harvard Medical School warns that “toxic productivity” leads to chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. O’Leary’s remarks represent a significant shift from his 2024 X post claiming success requires working “25 hours a day.” His evolving stance reflects growing recognition that burnout culture undermines rather than enhances entrepreneurial success, making wellness not a luxury but a business imperative.