The traditional five-day work week, established during the Industrial Revolution, is being challenged by a growing movement toward four-day schedules. Countries and companies worldwide are experimenting with this radical shift, and the results are reshaping our understanding of work, productivity, and quality of life.
The Iceland Breakthrough
Iceland conducted the world’s largest four-day work week trial from 2015-2019, involving 2,500 workers (1% of the country’s workforce). Productivity remained steady or improved in most workplaces, while employee well-being significantly increased. The success led to permanent adoption across much of Iceland’s public sector and influenced private employers.
Belgium’s Flexible Approach
Belgium became the first country to give workers the legal right to request a four-day week in 2022. Employees can compress their standard hours into four days without salary reduction, providing flexibility while maintaining full-time employment benefits. Early adoption has been highest among knowledge workers and creative industries.
The UK’s Massive Pilot Program
The UK’s six-month trial (2022-2023) involved 100 companies and 2,900 employees. Results showed:
- 97% of companies wanted to continue the four-day week
- Revenue increased by 35% on average during the trial
- Employee turnover decreased by 57%
- Stress levels and burnout significantly reduced
Corporate Pioneers
Several companies have independently adopted four-day weeks:
- Microsoft Japan: Saw 40% productivity increase during their 2019 trial
- Buffer: Implemented permanently in 2020, reporting improved employee satisfaction
- Thrive Global: Adopted the model to align with their wellness mission
- Kickstarter: Piloted the approach with positive results on creativity and collaboration
The Productivity Paradox
Research suggests that reducing work hours can increase productivity through:
- Improved focus during working hours
- Reduced burnout and stress-related inefficiency
- Better work-life balance leading to more engaged employees
- Elimination of unnecessary meetings and administrative tasks
Economic Implications
Four-day weeks could impact the broader economy:
- Reduced commuting decreases carbon emissions and traffic congestion
- Increased leisure time stimulates consumer spending
- Lower healthcare costs due to reduced stress-related illness
- Potential for better work distribution and reduced unemployment
Industry Variations
Implementation varies by sector:
- Technology: Easiest to implement due to flexible, output-based work
- Manufacturing: Requires careful scheduling but can work with compressed hours
- Healthcare: Challenging due to continuous care needs, but shift modifications possible
- Education: Natural fit with existing schedule flexibility
The 100-80-100 Model
The most successful four-day week implementations follow the “100-80-100” principle:
- 100% of pay
- 80% of time
- 100% of productivity
This requires fundamental changes in how work is organized, prioritized, and measured.
Challenges and Criticisms
- Customer service coverage during the additional day off
- Coordination difficulties with international partners
- Potential for increased daily work intensity
- Questions about fairness for workers who can’t reduce hours
- Implementation costs and scheduling complexity
Future Predictions
Labor experts predict that four-day weeks will become standard in knowledge work within the next decade. The combination of employee demand, competitive labor markets, and demonstrated benefits creates momentum for widespread adoption.
The four-day work week represents a fundamental shift in how we balance productivity, well-being, and economic growth in the modern economy.
