“888” is eight hours each of work, sleep and recreation, which is a great thing.

The ironic part of it is that most of the people doing 996 are building AI to replace humans work. And this is something that we don't talk about when speaking about 996. It's only a privilege, a lot of people would love to have normal job or a 996.

I come from Europe, I've had my high and lows when it comes to work hours, I was a consultant worked a lot, then a freelance and worked 2 day a week, now startup founder (YC) I don't count my hours but I'm close to working 6 days a week. To be honest the 4 years I worked 2 days a week were awesome and I'd wish everyone to reach that state where work is not the most important thing you do each week.

996 is bullshit used to exploit people.

Work life balance is key to being happy and healthy long-term.

You can eat all the steak and eggs you want, lift weights 7 days a week too, but 996 will burn you out regardless of whatever other activities you do to de-stress.

You want a new idea? Psilocybin Mondays. Everyone stays home, does some mushrooms and thinks a bit about their work for the week. I guarantee we see productivity increases, new ideas and less stress.

That the US accepts 50 weeks a year as the norm is also sad.

I talk to Americans who think having holidays and maternity leave is terrible stain on Europe.

We are a 100 person business with $50m turnover. And someone is almost always on maternity. We cope. Be human.