How does 32 hours a week instead of 40 hours sound if you got paid the same amount? Unsurprisingly, recent news of a four day workweek trial in the UK revealed that most employees love the idea.
Companies that participated in the trial saw their revenues stay “broadly the same,” which could reflect increased productivity during the four day workweek, or the fact that some hours of work have no impact on revenues.
Employees enjoyed the improved work-life balance and the ability to better take care of their families and households. Less people resigned from their jobs and many reported decreased stress levels, better sleep, and less burnout.
15% of the employees had the audacity or wisdom to state that “no amount of money” would make them go back to working 5 days a week.
Skeptics of the four day workweek, including myself, wonder how especially vital industries like healthcare could manage this idea. Companies that need to be “on call” 24/7 might have trouble implementing a shorter week for the same pay.
And then there are those, including myself, that would rather work more and earn more. Admittedly, though, I have less responsibilities when it comes to family matters and household tasks. My priority is helping my clients with their real estate goals.
Whether a four day workweek becomes normalized remains to be seen, but it’s interesting to think about the pros and cons of the idea. Since 1938, the 40 hour workweek has been codified in U.S. law. Is it time for a change?
