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Age-reversing CEO Bryan Johnson flags health risks while reacting to Indian coder's 4 am post: ‘This is not heroic'

Age-reversing CEO Bryan Johnson flags health risks while reacting to Indian coder's 4 am post: ‘This is not heroic'

Time of India02-06-2025
A post by Indian web developer Priyanshu Tiwari recently went viral, sparking a global discussion about work habits, health, and hustle culture. He shared a photo of himself and his teammates coding in the office at 4 am with the caption, 'It is 4 am, guys, but builders are building. What's your excuse?'
Many praised the dedication, saying it showed commitment and passion. But not everyone agreed.
'This is not heroic', Bryan Johnson reacts
American entrepreneur and anti-ageing advocate Bryan Johnson responded to the post, calling such habits 'terrible for health.' He warned that this kind of work culture should not be seen as something admirable. Johnson also pointed out the health problems that come with long hours at a desk, like poor posture, reduced brain oxygen, disturbed sleep, and more.
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His honest take received mixed reactions. Some people praised him for speaking up against the pressure-filled work environment common in tech firms and start-ups. One user commented, 'Bryan is spot on. This kind of schedule is not sustainable.'
But others criticised him, saying it's easy to give health advice when you're already rich. One user wrote, 'Easy to give this advice from your villa in Venice when you've already made millions.'
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Johnson replied calmly, 'Even small improvements in sleep posture and circadian rhythm can enhance performance and longevity. It's not either-or.'
Health warning from WHO
A 2021 report by the World Health Organization (WHO) found that long working hours led to 745,000 deaths worldwide, mainly from heart disease and stroke. The study said working 55+ hours a week increases the risk of stroke by 35% and heart disease by 17%, compared to working 35–40 hours a week.
Today, around 9% of the global population works long hours, putting more people at risk of serious health problems and early death.
Why this matters
This online exchange highlights a serious concern in today's tech industry: the pressure to work long hours, chase deadlines, and celebrate burnout. While Priyanshu's post was meant to motivate, it also reflects a growing problem, working too hard at the cost of your health.
Who is Bryan Johnson?
Bryan Johnson is a well-known figure in the biohacking world. At 47, he spends millions each year trying to slow down ageing. His programme, called Blueprint, includes over 100 daily supplements, carefully tracked sleep, and data-based exercise routines.
Priyanshu's post shows the passion of a generation eager to succeed, but Bryan Johnson's response reminds us to ask: at what cost?
Success is important, but so is health. Long-term performance comes not from all-nighters, but from balanced routines, enough rest, and caring for your body. Burnout shouldn't be a badge of honour, it should be a warning sign.
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