Tiffany McAdams — May 26, 2017 When do you feel most productive during the week? Friday afternoon? Probably not. As the work week progresses, creativity takes a hit. Longer days also have a crippling effect on productivity and creativity. Recent studies show that most employees are only productive for about five hours a day. The rest of the time is spent daydreaming, checking emails, browsing social sites and catching a nap. Whether you work individually or as part of a creative agency, downtime is necessary to maximize creativity.
Several companies worldwide have been experimenting with three day weekends and have found many unexpected benefits. Jason Fried, the CEO of 37signals, recently adopted this approach. “Better work gets done in four than in five” says Fried, who contributes an increase in creativity and productivity at his company to the shorter workweek.
A decrease in days worked also helps lower burnout among employees. Only half of all full-time staff work 40 hours or less. The remaining put in face time upwards of 40, 50 or even 60 hours a week. Increased work hours can lead to several negative health issues such as heart problems, type 2 diabetes, and stroke.
While consequences such as a lower paycheck can be a deterrent for some, companies are offering methods to maximize 401k contributions as well as increasing pay to help offset the difference. Many employees find that being a little more mindful of the budget is an easy tradeoff for more time with friends and family.
Ready to hop on board? Check out this infographic highlighting some of the more prominent benefits of a three-day weekend. It also shows how three day weekends not only help the employee but the company as well. Companies have been able to attract and retain more talent, all while saving money on the costs associated with working the extra day. Your friends, family and boss will all thank you for it.
Via: InvestmentZen.com
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