Melinda Gates Slams CEOs Who Skip Sleep for Work, Says Doesn't Want to Be Around Them

Texas: Melinda French Gates has spoken out against top CEOs who boast about sleeping fewer hours to dedicate more time to work, labelling such behavior as “so dumb.” In an interview with Vanity Fair, the philanthropist did not hold back in her criticism of these workaholic leaders who claim to get by on just three or four hours of sleep. Expressing her frustration, she said, “Some of us didn’t want to be around them! Let’s be honest!” French also emphasized that she prioritizes getting enough rest, aiming for seven to eight hours of sleep every night.

Her comments come at a time when the conversation around work-life balance and health is becoming more central, especially for high-powered executives. The belief that more work requires less sleep has long been part of the corporate culture among certain leaders. However, Gates’ remarks challenge this outdated mindset, pushing for a more balanced approach to both leadership and personal health.

Her ex-husband, Bill Gates, who co-founded Microsoft, shared a similar story about his early days as an entrepreneur. Like many in the tech industry, he was influenced by others who bragged about needing very little sleep. Gates admitted that he once bought into the idea that "sleep is laziness and unnecessary." Recalling those days, he had then said, "I would be like, ‘I only sleep six hours,’ and the other guy says, ‘I only sleep five!’ and ‘Well, sometimes I don’t sleep at all.’ I’d be like, ‘Wow, those guys are so good. I need to try harder.’"

But Gates’ perspective changed drastically when his father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Studies have shown a strong link between poor sleep and the development of dementia, including Alzheimer’s. Reflecting on this, Gates said, "One of the strongest things to emerge in (the Alzheimer’s) area is the importance of good sleep. It’s one of the most predictive factors of any dementia." Now, he makes it a point to get at least seven hours of sleep every night, recognising the critical role it plays in maintaining long-term health.

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has also been vocal about his past extreme work habits, which often involved pulling all-nighters and even sleeping under his desk to meet deadlines. Musk’s relentless work schedule, particularly during Tesla’s production crunch, became almost legendary. However, even Musk has realized the toll it can take. Last year, he revealed that he has since shifted his priorities, now aiming to get at least six hours of sleep a night.