For example, a recent longitudinal study found that switching to a four-day workweek led to widespread improvements in well-being and employee satisfaction. Conducted by researchers from various institutions, the study indicates that reducing the work week by one day can lead to notable improvements in mental and physical health, as well as productivity.
In the study, participants were compensated with 100% of their normal salaries but working in a concentrated, reduced-hour week. They cut back on their labor for the day by one full day, or by one to seven hours per week. Results were categorized based on the extent of hour reductions: 1-4 hours, 5-7 hours, and a complete eight-hour reduction.
Results showed a significant reduction in burnout that was statistically significant and meaningful, with burnout reducing by an average of 0.44 on a 1-5 scale overall. Furthermore, participants’ job satisfaction increased by 0.52 points on a 0-10 scale. That causal study showed enormous impacts on mental health – a 0.39 point increase on a 1-5 scale. Furthermore, participants experienced improvements in their physical health, with quality of life ratings improving by 0.28.
Both surveys found that the level of benefit was directly related to number of hours cut. Remarkably, 90% of trial participants agreed to keep their shortened workweeks even after the trial period ended.
History shows that when work hours are excessively long, mental health and physical health decline, ultimately leading to lower productivity. The study’s authors emphasized the need for innovative approaches to work organization, particularly in light of the rapid advancements in digital technology, automation, and artificial intelligence.
“This study has important implications for understanding the future of work, with 4-day workweeks probably being a key component. Scientific advances from this work will inform the development of interventions promoting better organization of paid work and worker well-being. This task has become increasingly important with the rapid expansion of new digital, automation, and artificial general intelligence technologies.” – Authors of the study (Wen Fan et al)
The results are already encouraging the work of organizations such as 4 Day Week Global (4DWG). … and they still fight internationally for shorter working hours. The researchers noted that some of the observed physical health benefits may take longer than six months to manifest. The news on everybody’s well-being outcomes – and overall life satisfaction levels – is extremely positive.