Introduction: A Shift in Work Hours

The 40-hour workweek has been a long-standing standard for many years, but the debate over the ideal number of hours one should work each day continues to be a topic of discussion. Two common alternatives are the 10-hour work day for four days or the traditional 8-hour work day for five days. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each scheduling option, considering various factors such as work-life balance, productivity, and the overall impact on mental and physical well-being.

The 8-Hour Work Day: A Familiar and Comforting Routine

The traditional 8-hour workday has a tried-and-true appeal. For many professionals, it offers a clear separation between work and personal life, allowing for a predictable routine and consistent personal time. However, the long stretches of hours spent at work can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for those with tight deadlines or demanding projects.

The 10-Hour Work Day: A More Challenging but Potentially Rewarding Schedule

The 10-hour work day offers an extended period to tackle those big projects and provides flexibility and extended work periods. While it might mean longer workdays, for some, the advantage of having one fewer day at the office can be significant, allowing for more personal time and recovery.

Personal Experience: Two Schedules, Two Perspectives

I have experienced both the 4 10-hour days and the 5 8-hour days schedules. Initially, I preferred the 8-hour days, finding it easier to manage the workday and balance personal life, especially when it meant an earlier finish and more time for hobbies and family. However, after evaluating the pros and cons, I found myself leaning towards the 10-hour days for certain jobs.

When I worked at the call center, a 10-hour workday was taxing due to constant calls and daily stress. Having an extra day off meant catching up on sleep, which was essential. On the other hand, my current job, which is salary-based, provides flexibility and options to work longer days or take some time off if needed. The ability to adjust hours means the average workweek averages out to 40 hours, but with the choice of 10-hour days, I am more satisfied with the balance between work and personal life.

Comparing Both Schedules with Variability in Jobs

When comparing the 10-hour days to 8-hour days, it's crucial to consider the nature of one's job. Different industries and positions may benefit more from one schedule over the other. For instance, jobs that require constant teamwork, such as in a call center, might be more suited for the 10-hour days due to the need for continuity throughout the week.

On the other hand, jobs with more flexible work arrangements, such as office-based positions, might benefit more from the 5 8-hour days. These flexible schedules can provide more time for personal activities, projects, or even pursuing side hustles without the stress of late hours.

Proposed Solution: A 32-Hour Work Week

Considering the benefits and drawbacks of both schedules, I believe it's time to rethink the standard 40-hour workweek. A 32-hour work week with a 4-day work schedule could offer a more balanced approach.

This proposed schedule would consist of working four days and taking three days off. This allows for a flexible and dynamic work environment, where employees can focus on work when needed and spend the rest of their time on personal and recreational activities.

For example, at my workplace, we have two crews. Crew 1 starts on Monday with 10-hour days, while Crew 2 starts on Tuesday. Both crews work from Tuesday to Thursday, and then Crew 1 has the weekend off, while Crew 2 works their last day on Friday, giving them a 4-day weekend. The next week, the schedules reverse. This setup provides a fair distribution of weekends, ensuring a balance between work and personal life.

Conclusion: Crafting a Better Work-life Balance

Ditching the traditional 40-hour workweek and adopting a 32-hour work week with a 4-day work schedule could revolutionize how we manage our work and personal lives. By bringing in these changes, we can enhance productivity, reduce burnout, and improve overall well-being. As workplaces continue to evolve, it's essential to consider these factors and adapt to what best serves the needs of both employers and employees.