In a world where the five-day workweek has been the norm for nearly a century, it’s time to question whether it’s truly the most effective way to work. With technological advancements and changing attitudes toward work-life balance, the four-day workweek is gaining momentum. But does it live up to the hype?
Atlassian’s team embarked on a nine-week experiment during the summer of 2021, testing the waters of a four-day workweek. The goal? To determine whether we could maintain or improve our performance metrics while enhancing our well-being. Here’s what we discovered.
The Experiment
Hypotheses
Our experiment began with two hypotheses:
- Our team could be just as effective working four days a week as with the traditional five-day schedule.
- Switching to a four-day workweek would positively impact our work-life balance and overall well-being.
The Experience
The sky didn’t fall! In fact, we found that our key performance metrics remained steady or improved. Our sense of well-being also received a boost. However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing. Logistical challenges and emotional adjustments surfaced along the way.
The Power of Parkinson’s Law
Parkinson’s law suggests that work expands to fill the time allotted for it. Conversely, by allowing ourselves less time, we could work more efficiently. Our intense four-day workweeks included shorter meetings, focused workdays, and fewer breaks. But the real magic happened during our consistent three-day weekends, which rejuvenated us for the next week.
The four-day workweek isn’t a magical solution, but it challenges the status quo. As companies explore this trend, it’s essential to consider individual roles, lifestyle, and purpose. While not universally applicable, the four-day workweek offers a tantalizing glimpse into a more balanced and productive future.
