The Four-Day Working Week Is the Future - Here's Why

Steven Linton June 15, 2021

Back in March, Spain began a revolutionary trial of the mythical four-day working week. But as the idea steadily gains ground globally, myth is slowly turning into reality for thousands of workers.

Touted as a means to increase productivity, fight climate change and support workers' mental health, the proposal has gained new traction following the pandemic, which has brought issues such as burnout, work-life balance and wellbeing into sharp focus.

Contrary to popular belief, the four-day work week suggests that working fewer hours doesn't necessarily mean a reduction in productivity.

According to a 2017 trial of a six-hour working day in a nursing home in Sweden, working fewer hours for the same pay led to a 10% reduction in sick leave and improved quality of care for the patients.

The New Economics Foundation, a British think tank, has long supported the concept. For one, it points out that countries with shorter working hours tend to consume less energy and leave a smaller carbon footprint. Moving out of the fast lane and into slow, sustainable living may be a contributing factor.

If implemented properly, the move towards a shorter working week would also positively contribute to social and economic quality, easing dependence on debt-fueled growth.

The Netherlands and Germany have shorter working weeks than the UK and the US, yet their economies are stronger. Redistributing working hours equally across an economy would also lower unemployment.

The benefits would be felt inside the home, too. Parents would be better able to balance their time, spend less on childcare and spend more quality time with their children.

There'd be more time and care for families, friends and neighbors, strengthening familial and community bonds.