In the summer of 2019, I realized my work routine had shifted from frantic multitasking to a more organized approach. As my kids grew older and I transitioned to working from home, distractions became less frequent. I started focusing on one task at a time, which significantly improved my productivity.
One memorable week, I decided to work extra hours so I could take a Friday off to enjoy a day at the beach with my kids. It was an amazing experience! As we lounged on the soft sand, it dawned on me that being self-employed allowed me the flexibility to enjoy such days regularly.
The following Friday, we spent the day at a friend’s pool, and the next week was filled with back-to-school shopping, oversized pretzels, and refreshing smoothies at the mall. When my kids returned to school, I committed to keeping my Fridays free. I felt more balanced and like my true self. Having a three-day weekend to look forward to made managing my workload during the week so much easier.
This new schedule also helped me tackle personal errands, like getting the car washed or making dentist appointments, all of which I knew I could handle on Fridays. While I have the luxury of controlling my work hours, many people don’t, but there are companies exploring the four-day work week, which may soon become more common.
The ongoing struggle for work-life balance is something we all face, impacting our mental and physical health. Recently, the Spanish government announced a trial for a nationwide four-day work week, reflecting a concept that has been discussed since the 20th century. Economists like John Maynard Keynes have suggested that increased efficiency in industrialized societies would eventually lead to more leisure time.
In a successful experiment, Microsoft Japan implemented a four-day work week and saw a remarkable boost in employee productivity. Similarly, Shake Shack has initiated a pilot program for some of its supervisors, and they report improved life satisfaction and financial benefits, including savings on childcare.
Many in the workforce are embracing this shift. For instance, Jeff M. mentions that his shorter work week has been transformative for his mental health. He appreciates the extra day off, even if it means longer work hours on the other days. Kelsea Z. and her husband, business owners, offer a four-day work week and have seen their employees thrive in productivity and well-being. Sarah C., who works three 12-hour shifts, says she could never return to a five-day schedule, despite the demanding nature of her job.
However, implementing a four-day work week does require consideration, especially for businesses like retail and restaurants that may need to hire more staff. Yet, the consensus is clear: many people are eager for this change, questioning why it has taken so long to implement.
For me, the four-day work week has revolutionized my life. I feel more rested and less stressed, and Fridays have become a productive day that allows me to truly enjoy my weekends without the stress of catching up on tasks.
Are you excited about the prospect of a four-day work week, or do you prefer the traditional five-day schedule?
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Summary
The shift to a four-day work week has significantly improved my happiness and productivity as a working mom. By enjoying extended weekends, I have found a better balance between work and personal life. With increasing interest in this model, many companies are exploring the potential benefits of a shorter work week, leading to enhanced employee satisfaction and overall well-being.