The concept of a four-day workweek is no longer just a dream but a reality for many employees around the world. Imagine finishing your workweek in just four days, leaving you with three days to relax, spend time with loved ones, and pursue personal interests. This shift in working hours is gaining traction in various countries, with pilot projects and legal recognition paving the way for a new era of work-life balance.
One successful pilot project took place in the United Kingdom, where 61 companies and 2,900 employees participated in a trial that resulted in a 90 percent retention rate. Employees maintained full pay while working 80 percent of their previous hours, demonstrating increased productivity and improved work-life balance. Similarly, Belgium became the first European country to legally endorse a four-day workweek in 2022, albeit with mixed adoption rates among employees.
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Image: Evan Blaser / Source: Wikimedia Commons
Despite these advancements, challenges remain in transitioning to a four-day workweek across various sectors. Historical examples, such as Henry Ford’s introduction of a five-day workweek in 1926, demonstrate the potential success of reduced working hours. However, shifting trends in the job market, including the rise of the technology and service sectors, have influenced work patterns without reducing overall work hours.
The Pandemic Push: A UK Success Story
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated interest in the four-day workweek, highlighting the importance of employee well-being and mental health. Initiatives like the 4 Day Week Global have spearheaded pilot projects to test this model in diverse industries. In the UK, companies like Bookishly have successfully transitioned to a four-day workweek, leading to increased productivity and employee satisfaction.
While the UK has seen positive results from these trials, Belgium has struggled with low adoption rates due to rigid work hour requirements. Employers in Belgium have expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the four-day workweek, citing concerns about productivity and scheduling challenges. Researchers have also raised issues regarding gender disparities in accessing reduced working hours and the impact on career progression.
The Gig Economy: A More Complicated Outlook
Gig workers, who operate in a non-traditional employment structure, face unique challenges in adapting to a four-day workweek. The EU’s Platform Work Directive aims to address these issues by providing gig workers with employee rights and protections. However, the implementation of a shortened workweek for gig workers remains complex until fundamental issues like unpaid time investments are resolved.
More EU Experiments
European countries like Germany and Portugal are conducting trials to explore the feasibility of a four-day workweek. The European Commission is also studying the impact of shorter workweeks on workers and companies. As productivity rates increase, there is a growing need to reevaluate work distribution and consider prioritizing employee well-being over profits.