Is a Four-Day Compressed Work Week Really Worth It?

I'm in a very fortunate position with my job, as I have the option to work a four-day week. This means that I can spread my 35 hours (or so) per week across four days instead of five, meaning I get Fridays off!

Turns out, not everyone shares my enthusiasm.

I was listening to the Jeremy Vine Show on BBC Radio 2 a few weeks ago (it's a well-known talk show here in the UK), where they were hosting a discussion about four-day working weeks. Now, I'm not one for getting angry at the radio, but the discussion revealed just how ill-informed some people in the UK are about this way of working.

As someone who has been working four-day weeks for over a year, I thought I would write a few reasons why I believe we should be encouraging this in the workplace, based on my own experience.

Increased productivity

Because I need to plan my work-related activities across fewer days, I've noticed I've been far more productive than before. Don't believe me? Check out "Parkinson's Law" Not only that, but many other companies have introduced similar four-day working weeks, resulting in people working more efficiently. For example, Microsoft Japan trialled four-day weeks and saw productivity increase by 40%.

Better work-life balance

Not only am I more productive, but I feel I have more control in maintaining a work-life balance. By having an extra day off, I have more time to spend on other things, like work around the house, hobbies, and time spent with family. As a result, this has had a positive impact on my overall happiness and wellbeing.

Environmental and economic benefits

There are also environmental and economic benefits of four-day weeks too. Because I'm commuting less, I can reduce my carbon emissions as there is no need for me to travel into the office for an extra day. Not only that, but I also save money on train tickets and petrol.

Free day

Because I get an extra day back to myself, it frees up time, meaning I can spend more on the things that are important to me. If you're a part-time student, for example, you could give yourself a study day. In my case, I choose to spend that time looking after my son while my wife is at work.

Some downsides

That being said, it's worth mentioning that four-day working weeks do have a few downsides. The obvious one is working longer days, which may increase the risk of burning out. Not only that, but it may impact opportunities for collaboration, as not everyone can or wants to work compressed hours.

Final thoughts

To answer the question of this blog post, the simple answer is: yes! A four-day compressed work week is really worth it.

Now, I think it should go without saying that for obvious reasons, compressed hours won't be an option for everyone. For example, it wouldn't be possible for shift workers (e.g. healthcare) or tradespeople to work compressed hours.

Overall, my take is: if your employer gives you the option, and you have a good reason for wanting it—take it. If you don't like it, you can always go back to working five-day weeks.