Is China’s 996 work culture becoming the western startup norm? An in-depth exploration

Recall the ancient proverb – ‘Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.’ This wisdom has long motivated and inspired individuals, painting work as enjoyable when it dovetails with one’s passion. This notion particularly resonates with startup founders whose zeal for their mission often condones what some deem unhealthy work patterns. In today’s fervent world of entrepreneurship, few notions are as enduring or contentious as the so-called ‘hustle culture’. Recently, a notable venture capitalist shook the startup world when he forecasted the rise of China’s notorious ‘996’ work culture in the West. Originating in China, the 996 model stipulates a 12-hour workday, from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week. Even though China has been trying to move away from this practice, it seems to be gaining ground amongst startups in the West, eliciting both criticism and endorsement. The argument supporting this intense work ethic is that founders must devote themselves entirely to their startups to build an epoch-defining company. Most tech behemoths, including Amazon, Apple, and Meta, were built on this very hustle culture. But is such an extreme sacrifice of social life, sleep, and even sanity, a requirement for success? Time, particularly for early-stage startups and in the AI era, is the ultimate currency. With technology moving rapidly, and the competition being fierce, falling behind is not an option for aspiring entrepreneurs. Founders can expedite company establishment with new tools that obviate traditional barriers to entry and reduce costs. Startup founders advocating for this high-pressure work culture believe that an aggressive initial year or two sets the foundation for long-term success. By this logic, any delay can lead to competitors outpacing you, causing your startup to lose its competitive edge. The argument is that burnout often stems from a lack of success and momentum rather than the intensity of work. A founder’s work ethic can sometimes serve as a strong indicator of their ambition, grit, and commitment to their startup, with venture capitalists frequently associating long hours with drive. So, could this high-octane approach to work be the secret sauce to building an impactful business in a crowded market? The jury’s still out on this one. However, one thing is certain; the debate around the desirability and sustainability of the 996 work culture is far from over.