The working week should be shorter and workers should have a longer weekend.
Do you agree or disagree?
Nowadays, many employees are demanding a better work-life balance, and as a result, the idea of shortening the working week and extending the weekend has gained popularity. However, whether this change would lead to improved productivity and well-being remains open to debate. My view is that reducing the working week can bring considerable benefits to both individuals and society as a whole.
First, it is obvious that long working hours often lead to stress, burnout, and declining health. This is because people who work continuously for five or six days a week may lack sufficient time to relax, pursue personal interests or spend quality time with their families. As a result, their mental and physical health could be seriously affected, which in turn lowers work efficiency. By contrast, a longer weekend allows workers to recharge, thereby returning to work with greater energy and motivation.
Moreover, actually, a shorter working week may enhance productivity rather than reduce it. For example, several companies in Europe and Asia have already experimented with four-day workweeks and reported positive outcomes, including higher job satisfaction, reduced absenteeism, and even improved output. If governments and employers adopt flexible working arrangements, supported by modern technology, the overall work quality could be maintained or even increased.
That is not to say that a shorter week would be suitable for all industries. In some sectors such as emergency services, transport, or manufacturing, continuous staffing is necessary. A sudden reduction in working days might disrupt operations or increase costs. But fortunately, with proper planning, such as implementing shift systems or hiring additional part-time staff, these challenges can be managed effectively.
In sum, reducing the number of working days and extending weekends could bring meaningful improvements in health, morale, and productivity. While some industries may face practical difficulties, flexible and creative solutions can be adopted. Therefore, I believe that a shorter working week is a positive step towards a more balanced and efficient society.
322 words
Comments (0)