The Link Between Hours Spent at the Workplace, Productivity, and Choices

Recently, senior leaders have suggested that young employees must start putting in 70 hours a week to be more competitive. Others have opposed this suggestion, arguing that it is unsustainable and counterproductive.

In this post, I will explore the link between hours spent at the workplace, productivity, and choices. I will also discuss the two important issues that we need to consider when thinking about this topic: input versus outcome, and priorities and choices.

Input vs. Outcome

As a business person, manager, and leader, which metric is more important: input or outcome?

Input is the amount of time and effort that we put into something. Outcome is the result of our efforts.

Traditionally, businesses have focused on input metrics, such as hours worked. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards focusing on outcome metrics, such as productivity and profitability.

This shift is due to the recognition that there is no direct correlation between hours worked and productivity. In fact, studies have shown that working longer hours can actually lead to decreased productivity, increased fatigue, and burnout.

So, if input is not the most important metric, what should we be chasing?

Outcome

Outcome is the more important metric because it is what ultimately matters.

If we are focused on outcome, we will be more likely to make choices that lead to productivity and profitability. For example, we may choose to delegate tasks, automate processes, or take breaks when we need them.

Of course, this does not mean that we should completely disregard input metrics. However, we should not focus on them at the expense of outcome metrics.

Priorities and Choices

It is also equally important to consider our priorities and choices when thinking about the link between hours spent at the workplace, productivity, and choices.

Some people may choose to work long hours because they are chasing a dollar dream. They may want to earn as much money as possible so that they can buy a big house, a nice car, and expensive vacations.

Other people may choose to work fewer hours because they value their personal time and relationships more than money. They may want to spend more time with their families and friends, or pursue hobbies and interests.

There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to priorities and choices. It is up to each individual to decide what is most important to them.

However, it is important to be aware of the trade-offs involved. If we choose to work long hours, we may have less time for our personal lives. If we choose to work fewer hours, we may earn less money.

Conclusion

The link between hours spent at the workplace, productivity, and choices is complex. There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

As business people, managers, and leaders, we need to consider the following factors when making decisions about work hours:

• What are our priorities and choices?

• What is the best way to achieve our desired outcomes?

• How can we create a sustainable and productive work environment for our employees?

We also need to be mindful of the fact that there is no direct correlation between hours worked and productivity. In fact, studies have shown that working longer hours can actually lead to decreased productivity, increased fatigue, and burnout.

Ultimately, the goal should be to find a balance that works for everyone involved. We want to create a workplace where employees are productive and engaged, but we also want to ensure that they have time for their personal lives and well-being.

Hashtags: #ConsciousEntreprenerurship #WorkLifeBalance #Productivity #Wellbeing