In England, a new project explores the benefits of a reduced work week, and the results are encouraging. The project, involving 61 companies, trialed a 4-day work week for 18 months with no reduction in pay for the workers. The goal was to maintain 100 percent productivity by bringing more energy and efficiency to the workplace while lessening fatigue and burnout.
It was so successful that almost 90 percent of the companies participating in the program still have the policy in effect today. They have reported happier workers, lower turnover, and greater efficiency. The majority of companies have said they will not be going back to the old 40-hour workweek. The success stories coming out of the trial have proven a better work-life balance is possible.
