Hopefully, you are not reading this article, because you are too busy soaking up Labor Day weekend for all that it’s worth. But, should you find yourself here anyway, say as an interlude to your hiking, beaching, brunching, binge-watching or whatever-ing, then consider the following food for thought: science suggests we would be healthiest if we practiced shorter workweeks every week. Take a moment to fantasize about the notion.
Now, let’s consider the facts. Last month, The Lancet put forth a study encompassing the work patterns of more than 600,000 participants from America, Australia and Europe. Their findings conclude that those who clocked in 55 or more hours each week had a 33% higher risk for a stroke than their under-40-hour peers. Yikes.
These staggering numbers are all the reason you need to propose your superiors with your own version of the 4-hour-work-week. But once you have their attention, you can reinforce your case by enlightening them on the myriad of benefits the setup entails, including but not limited to an enhanced performance at the office, a generally happier mood and, our favorite, more sleep. Mmmm.
If you’re feeling hesitant to present this alternate reality to your boss, you can take comfort in knowing that you are not alone; abridged workweeks are a rising trend, and may soon even become commonplace. The Families and Work Institute recently released a report that revealed 43% of 1,051 employers extended diminished hours to their employees. So, what are you waiting for? Step away from your screen and start living.
