A recent global study has revealed that implementing a four-day work week can lead to happier and more productive employees. The study, published in Nature Human Behavior, found that workers who participated in a four-day work week reported less burnout, better job satisfaction, and improved mental and physical health.
The research team, led by economist and sociologist Juliet Schor from Boston College, conducted six-month trials involving nearly 2,900 employees at 141 businesses across various countries. These employees worked 80% of their regular hours for the same pay, essentially enjoying a three-day weekend every week.
Results showed that employees who had a reduction of eight or more hours in their work week experienced larger decreases in burnout and increases in job satisfaction and mental health compared to those working a traditional five-day schedule. Even those who had slightly less time off during their four-day week still reported similar benefits.
The study also found that better sleep, improved job effectiveness, and reduced fatigue were contributing factors to the positive outcomes observed among employees with a four-day work week. Workers reported feeling more capable and satisfied with their job performance, which led to overall well-being improvements.
While the results are promising, the researchers noted that the companies involved in the study were already interested in implementing a four-day work week and may have been more supportive of employee well-being from the start. They recommended further studies with larger sample sizes and diverse types of companies to confirm the benefits of a shortened work week for both employees and businesses.
In conclusion, the study suggests that reducing work hours can lead to improved well-being and work performance among employees. The findings highlight the potential for organizations to optimize workflows and enhance job satisfaction through a four-day work week. It remains to be seen how widespread adoption of this model could positively impact the workforce in the future.
For more information, you can refer to the original study published in Nature Human Behavior. Copyright © 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
