I think the disconnect here between those who advocate hard work and those who are opposed to it, is really about who the beneficiaries of that hard work are. I

I think the disconnect here between those who advocate hard work and those who are opposed to it, is really about who the beneficiaries of that hard work are. If you are a founder or a sole-proprietor like myself, the economic surplus of all that hard work accrues to you. You still need to pace yourself to avoid burnout (there is a danger of working too hard -- even for yourself), but for the most part, the output of your work belongs to you. The situation is much more complicated when you are working for someone else. Then you'll need to make a careful assessment of whether working harder is a net economic benefit for your (vs. doing other things in the time that would be freed up and the cost of any long term damage you might do to your health if you worked too hard.) For example it would entirely consistent for you to put in a 40 hr week for your employer, and spend all other discretionary time on your own project. It is also okay if you make the finding that your employer sponsored work is your primary long term goal and work on that even during weekends. E.g. this how many academics see their work. For most startups, as an employee, you need to be very careful with your calculation. Much of the value you create in a startup or a large tech company will not be captured by you! You need to make the calculation as to whether or working harder has a strategic benefit for you. It might or it might not. So the real issue is not 'working hard' but working hard on what?