TED Talks Daily
The case for a 4-day work week | Juliet Schor
Aug 10, 2023
Juliet Schor, an economist leading trials for a four-day work week, advocates for a radical shift in work culture. She shares compelling data from implementations in the US and Ireland, showing increased productivity and employee satisfaction. Schor discusses how a 32-hour work week, while maintaining five days of pay, tackles burnout and contributes to environmental sustainability. Her insights reveal the potential for companies and governments to collaborate towards a healthier work-life balance and a more sustainable future.
16:10
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Quick takeaways
- Implementing a four-day work week with no pay cuts can lead to reduced stress, increased job satisfaction, and better work-life balance.
- Shorter work weeks can improve productivity, employee well-being, and address systemic issues like racism and sexism.
Deep dives
The Benefits of a Four-Day Work Week
The pandemic has increased anxiety and burnout in the workforce, leading to a growing interest in a four-day work week. Research shows that shorter work weeks with no cuts in pay can result in less stress, increased job satisfaction, and better work-life balance. Companies also benefit from lower turnover, reduced healthcare costs, and higher quality applicants. Government initiatives, such as those in Iceland and Sweden, have shown positive results with improved productivity and employee well-being. Adopting a four-day work week can address not only work-related challenges but also systemic issues like racism, sexism, and classism.
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