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An Indian-origin man who has worked in both India and the US shares how his outlook on work-life balance changed after moving abroad and experiencing stricter rules on working hours.
He explains how after-hours calls, overtime pay, and sign-offs look different in the two countries. (Photo: Instagram/@desidad_in_america)
An Indian-origin man living in the US shared his experience working in both India and the US, highlighting the distinct differences in how work and after-work hours are handled. He said that over the years he has witnessed a major shift in how work-life balance is approached in both countries.
In a video posted on Instagram, Nitin Malhotra talked about his journey from working in India for several years to living in the United States for more than a decade. He explained that although both places have structured work systems, the way people respect working hours seems completely different.
Leaving office on time was unusual in India
Malhotra said that during his time working in India, finishing an eight-hour shift and leaving on time was often embarrassing. He said people would notice when he left early and sometimes react as if it was unusual.
“If I started work at 10 a.m. and got up to leave at 6 p.m., or even about 6:30 p.m. after my eight hours were up, the office staff and people around me would stare as if something was wrong,” he said. “I felt as if they were wondering, ‘Where is he going so early?’”
Survey of working hours in the United States
He said his experience in the United States was more organized. Once his working hours are up, he simply logs out and leaves without any pressure to stay longer.
“Here, I work for eight hours, stop working and go home,” he said. “The people around me are not bothered by that. Once my shift is over, I simply leave for home.”
Overtime rules and manager support
Malhotra also pointed out that in the United States, overtime is usually paid correctly. He recalled an incident in which his manager expressed his appreciation for taking an after-hours work call.
“She was very happy that I received it. The next day, she expressed her appreciation for me and also paid me time and a half for overtime,” he said. He added: “In America, this is the work culture. If you work more than 40 hours, you get extra pay, usually time and a half.”
A different approach to after-work time
He explained that although India has formal work systems, the culture regarding boundaries and personal time is different in the United States. Managers generally don’t bother employees after work hours, and expectations are clearly set, he said.
“Managers here do not call you unnecessarily after work. Your working hours are clearly defined, and everything is organized properly. People here are happier because of this culture. I honestly feel that India should follow this approach as well,” he said.
The Internet reacts
The video received many reactions on Instagram. “This is exactly what India needs to learn,” one user wrote. Another commented: “Work shouldn’t take over your whole life.”
“Overtime should always be paid, no matter where you work,” one person said. “This is why work-life balance is so important,” another reaction read.
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