But what if you could work less and increase your productivity? Science says it’s possible, and there’s real-life evidence to back this idea. Here, we’ll take a look at how a 4-day (32 hour) work week can be productive.
Is Working a 4-Day Week Possible?
Feeling stressed and unmotivated are common signs of burnout at work, but there might be a solution. If you’ve been dreaming about working less for the same salary, 4 Day Week Global’s trial shows it’s possible, with almost 1,000 employees receiving 100% of their pay for 80% of their time.
This trial was a six-month-long study led by researchers from Cambridge University, Boston College, and Oxford University. Participating companies reported an increase in mental well-being, productivity, and overall happiness of the employees who worked only four days a week for the entire trial period.
The only requirement was to keep (or start!) putting in 100% of their effort — and the incentive proved to be successful. You might think it could be overwhelming to fit in the same amount of work in less time, but the experiment had quite the opposite effect.
According to the trial, fewer working hours translate into fewer distractions and a sharper focus. In fact, many employees worldwide admit that they finish their work before the end of the working day and do nothing for the rest of it. Now, imagine this time being used more productively!
Success Reports From the 4-Day Work Week Trial
Kickstarter was one of the companies reducing its work week to only 32 hours without a change in pay, and it reported a drastic increase in productivity. This is likely due to the workers being less stressed and having more time for themselves. Feedback also suggests it allows employees to be more focused and engaged during working hours.
Most companies involved in the trial reported revenue growth of about 8% during the trial period and of 38% compared to the same period last year. Of all the companies who have provided feedback, more than 65% are definitely continuing the 4-day work week scheme, with the rest either prolonging the trial period or still deciding. None of the companies have decided to return to a “classic” 5-days schedule yet.
How to Adopt a 4-Day Work Week Mindset
The idea that the more you work, the more successful you will become is long over-dated and is rooted in a toxic perception of success. However, the experiments like this show that you can be productive while working less, and your finances will only benefit from it.
Overworked individuals with little vacation time and long hours, on the other hand, report much higher levels of stress and stress-related issues, as well as mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.
Here are some tips to optimize your schedule for a 4-Day work week if your company considers it.
Optimize your daily schedule. Use tools like Todoist and Trello, and learn how to automate some tasks (so you have more time to focus on what really matters!). Improve your focus by blocking digital distractions. Apps like Forest are a great motivator to put down your phone while working. Use an email reminder and scheduling system. An app like Boomerang can take off the unnecessary stress of living via the inbox. Be strategic with time blocking. Google Calendar can help you focus on one task at a time and plan your day better. Clarify expectations. Set clear goals according to the company’s guidelines, wage, and other policy issues on 4-Day work weeks.
Tip: You can proactively apply for jobs at companies who are supporting the 4-Day work week culture. Sites like 4 Day Work Week and Four Day Week (U.K) can filter your opportunities.
Make Working a Shorter Week Better
Appearing “lazy” is a common fear shared by many workers who finish their work early. But science says they don’t have to feel bad about it. On the contrary, it can increase productivity, improve family time, and help the company’s bottom line.
If you’re looking to implement this, there are plenty of ways to increase your productivity and get more done in less time.
