Edelweiss MF CEO Radhika Gupta Reflects on Choices, Hard Work, and Happiness Amid a 90-Hour Work Week

Radhika Gupta, the CEO of Edelweiss Mutual Fund and an influential voice in India’s financial landscape, recently opened up in a heartfelt post about her 90-hour work week and her thoughts on balancing choices, hard work, and happiness. Known for her candid communication style and inspiring journey, Gupta’s reflections provide a refreshing perspective on navigating life and leadership in a high-pressure environment.

In her post, Radhika described her demanding schedule, highlighting that such intense weeks are not uncommon for her. However, she framed this lifestyle not as a burden but as a conscious choice—an outcome of her passion for her work and the meaning it brings to her life. "The hours might be long, but they are filled with purpose," she noted, emphasizing that true fulfillment often stems from embracing one’s choices, however challenging they may be.

Gupta’s reflections also touched on the role of hard work in achieving success. She acknowledged that the journey to the top is seldom easy, especially in the financial sector, where long hours and relentless focus are part of the job. But for her, hard work is not just about professional achievements—it is also about setting an example. “As a leader, your energy sets the tone for your team. If you work with commitment, it inspires others to do the same,” she explained.

While her work schedule might seem overwhelming to many, Gupta is quick to emphasize that happiness remains a priority. She admitted that happiness doesn’t come from having an “easy” life but from finding joy and pride in one’s choices. “We all make trade-offs,” she wrote, “but when those trade-offs align with your values and aspirations, they become easier to live with.”

Gupta’s journey is a testament to resilience and authenticity. From being India’s first female fund manager to becoming the CEO of one of the country’s leading mutual fund companies, her career is marked by bold choices and unwavering dedication. In a world that often glorifies work-life balance as a fixed ideal, Radhika’s perspective offers a nuanced alternative: it’s not about working less but about working with purpose and passion while staying true to what matters most.

Her post has resonated with professionals across industries, sparking conversations about the nature of success and the balance between ambition and well-being. For many, Radhika Gupta is not just a leader in the financial world but a role model for how to live a life of intention, grit, and fulfillment.