Indian techie says 'work-life balance is a reality' in Sweden: 'We wrap up by 4pm' 

Ashutosh Samal said employees in Sweden are encouraged to take breaks during the day, whether it's for a game or a coffee. (Image credit: (@roamwithashutosh/Instagram)

An Indian software developer working in Sweden has gone viral for his insights into the stark differences in corporate culture between the two nations. Ashutosh Samal took to Instagram to share his observations, with his video quickly garnering more than 80 lakh views and over six lakh likes.

Samal, a techie by profession, highlighted that work-life balance in Europe is a tangible reality, not merely a fashionable phrase. He noted that in Sweden, employees typically arrive at the office by 8 am, with some companies even providing complimentary breakfast as a perk. "You can tell after watching this video how different office life is in India compared to Sweden," Samal remarked.

He also described a more fluid and egalitarian workplace environment in Sweden. His company operates with an open-plan layout, allowing employees the freedom to choose their seating. Crucially, Samal pointed out the absence of a rigid hierarchy, stating, "Everyone is on the same level. Even our CEO sometimes sits next to me and works."

Shorter workdays and flexible breaks
Samal further elaborated on the different approach to working hours. He revealed that during the summer months, daily office hours are occasionally reduced from eight to seven. Employees are also encouraged to take breaks during the day, whether it's for a game or a coffee.

By 4 pm or 4:30 pm, most employees are already heading home, prioritising time with family and friends. "Work-life balance is a reality here, not just a buzzword," Samal reiterated.

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A post shared by Ashutosh Samal (@roamwithashutosh)

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Echoes from other expats

Samal's observations resonate with numerous other Indian professionals who have experienced European work cultures. The comments section of his video was flooded with similar sentiments.

"I enjoy the same work culture in Luxembourg and I feel I made a great decision to skip India’s toxic corporate culture," (@_ranjan4195_) Chitranjan Kumar wrote. Another user Sukanya (@sukanya.preeti) commented, "I worked in Helsinki. And it has spoiled me for life. I never knew work life balance exists! 8-4 working shifts. Everyone is so respectful of each other. Scandinavia rocks!"

"Narayana Murthy would get a heart attack watching this," joked Vivek (@vivvek_always_).

Last year, another Indian techie working in Sweden had praised the country's work culture. Ankur Tyagi wrote on X that in India, the work environment is steeped in hustle culture, where long hours and late nights were normalised. But after he moved to Sweden in 2021, he was introduced to a contrasting professional environment, where work-life balance and employee well-being are prioritised.

“There is an understanding that a balanced life leads to better work,” Tyagi remarked, describing the work culture in Sweden as a “whole new world” compared to his experiences in India.