A groundbreaking pilot project in Valencia, Spain, has shown that a four-day workweek can significantly enhance the well-being of employees.
The initiative, organised by the city’s left-wing coalition government, involved temporarily eliminating local holidays on four consecutive Mondays between April 10 and May 7 to create a four-day workweek for about 360,000 workers in the city.
The project garnered widespread support from the citizens, who rated it an average of 7 out of 10. Employees used their extra day off to engage in healthier activities, including exercise, rest, and cooking for themselves.
The positive impacts on physical and mental health were evident as stress levels decreased, and individuals reported increased happiness, better moods, and greater personal satisfaction. Moreover, their social lives thrived, with many exploring hobbies like photography, music, or painting, and spending more time in parks and nature.
One of the most significant beneficiaries of this experiment was children, who enjoyed an improved work-life balance for their parents. Additionally, air quality in the city improved on Mondays due to reduced traffic. However, the study couldn't conclusively determine whether less energy was consumed or if noise levels decreased.
Not there yet?
Nevertheless, the project had its drawbacks. Smokers and frequent alcohol consumers tended to increase their unhealthy habits. While the hospitality industry welcomed more customers during the extended weekends, retailers experienced a decline in sales, with a reported drop of up to 20%, despite many smaller businesses remaining open on the holiday Mondays. This indicated a shift in spending toward leisure activities.
The strain on emergency departments in hospitals increased as they had fewer employees on duty, while many health institutions remained closed for an extra day. This raised concerns about the potential challenges and disruptions in healthcare delivery.
The study concluded that implementing a four-day workweek should be evaluated in the context of each specific company. A general transition to a four-day workweek must have substantial support from both employers and employees.
The financial implications for companies and workers should also be taken into account. The committee conducting the study suggested that implementing a four-day workweek could present opportunities to reduce the number of temporary contracts, particularly those disproportionately held by women.
Observers noted that, for a four-day workweek to succeed, it must be adopted throughout society. Merely adopting shorter workdays within a four-day workweek while the rest of society adheres to a five-day schedule may not yield the desired benefits. Supporters of the plan cited Scandinavia as an example, where successful experiments align employees' hours with school hours to promote a better work-life balance.
In summary, the Valencia experiment demonstrates the potential for a four-day workweek to improve employee well-being when implemented holistically. However, addressing the challenges and finding the right balance for all sectors of society is essential. While it is clear that a four-day workweek offers numerous advantages, it is equally crucial to consider and manage the associated drawbacks.
