Kritarth Mittal, a 25-year-old software developer and founder of Soshals, has made a name for himself in the IT industry. However, his rapid career rise has come with significant personal sacrifices. A firm believer in hard work, Mittal has embraced a demanding “hustle” culture, often pushing himself to extremes. He has worked long hours, pulled all-nighters, skipped sleep, and neglected proper nutrition, all in the name of achieving professional success.
Mittal’s journey began during his college years at SRM University in Chennai, where he earned a degree in Computer Science (2016-2020). This relentless drive propelled him through the early stages of his career, but as he has grown older, the consequences of such a lifestyle have begun to show.
Mittal recently shared his experience on social media, revealing how the physical toll of overwork has started to affect him. “My body is no longer as resilient as it once was,” he wrote, noting that the pursuit of success shouldn’t come at the cost of health.
Netizens React to Kritarth’s Story
Mittal’s candid reflections have sparked a widespread conversation within the tech community. Many people have shared similar experiences, with an overwhelming consensus on the importance of maintaining balance. Some respondents emphasized the dangers of sleep deprivation, recommending a consistent sleep schedule. Others stressed the need to listen to one’s body to avoid burnout.
“Never pull all-nighters. Sleeping for at least 7-8 hours a day has allowed me to sustain my career without compromising my health,” one commenter shared. “The code you write in the morning after proper rest is much better than what you’d produce during an all-nighter.” Another netizen added that they had stopped responding to work-related calls after 10 p.m. to protect their well-being.
Kritarth’s Health and Response
Following his initial post, Mittal shared a photo from a hospital bed, revealing that he had been dealing with health issues. He later updated his followers, stating that he was feeling better but acknowledged that his lifestyle needed to change.
In response to the discussions around work-life balance, Mittal said he has made attempts to incorporate healthier habits, such as going to the gym and following a more disciplined daily routine. However, he admitted that maintaining these changes has been difficult, especially when work deadlines take priority.
Mittal also reflected on the tech industry’s culture of overwork, saying that while long workdays may be manageable with proper diet and exercise, the long-term effects can be harmful if not managed carefully. He noted that his physical symptoms, such as chronic body pain and dark circles, were clear signs that pushing too hard could lead to serious health consequences.
A Cautionary Tale for the Tech Industry
Kritarth Mittal’s story serves as a reminder that success should not come at the expense of health. His openness has resonated with many in the tech world, highlighting the ongoing struggle to balance career ambitions with personal well-being. His experience underscores the importance of prioritizing health in an industry where overwork is often normalized.
Despite the challenges, Mittal remains committed to finding a sustainable work-life balance. His story is a powerful example for others in the tech industry, encouraging professionals to take care of their health while pursuing their career goals.
