Germany announces a 4-day workweek; How can work-life bloom?

Four-day workweek idea is gaining support across the world. Various countries in Europe have already started trials for a four-day workweek schedule. In recent years, several countries launched their pilot programs to test the effectiveness of a four-day working week. Germany is the latest country to announce a pilot scheme to test the effectiveness of a four-day working week. How can work-life bloom by adopting a 4-day workweek? What can workers expect? 

What is a four day workweek?

A four day workweek is an initiative for adopting a healthy work-life balance. In this initiative, employees work four weekdays instead of five weekdays. They enjoy 3 days of holiday after work. Employees get the same salaries by working four days instead of five days.

The four day week in Germany

Germany started the trial of a four-day working week model. Under the scheme, employees would work four days a week instead of five while getting paid the same salaries. However, the workload will remain the same. 

Employers and employees would operate with fewer meetings and more independent work. Experts suggest that after the implementation of the four day work week, worker satisfaction and productivity would increase.

How can work-life bloom?

Workers’ work-life can bloom after adopting the 4-day workweek strategy. Previously, companies that participated in a 4-day work week trial adopted this initiative. Employees said that the 4-day work week initiative increased their productivity and improved their work-life balance. The workers said that they enjoyed their 3 day holiday after 4 days of work.

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Countries that have shifted to a four-day workweek

Ireland

Ireland launched its pilot program in 2022 to test the effectiveness of a four-day working week. Under this program, the working week decreased from 40 to 32 hours, with no loss in salaries.

Iceland

Iceland tested the idea of a four-day working week model from 2015 to 2019. Under this program, the working hours were reduced from 40 to 35 hours per week.

Belgium

Belgium started a four-day working week, without a loss of salary, in February 2022. Belgium was the first country in Europe to legislate for a four-day week. 

Scotland

Last year, Scotland started the trial of a four-day working week model. Several Scottish businesses participated in the pilot programme.

Various other countries have also shifted to a four-day workweek. Let us know your views about the four-day workweek schedule.