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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Julia Musto

A four-day work week improves productivity and health, new study shows

  • A landmark study by Boston College, in collaboration with 4 Day Week Global, has found significant benefits to a four-day work week without pay reduction.
  • The research, involving over 100 companies and nearly 2,900 workers across several countries including the UK, revealed high satisfaction for both employers and employees.
  • Key positive outcomes included improved productivity, revenue growth, better physical and mental health for workers, and reduced stress and burnout.
  • Companies maintained productivity by cutting low-value activities like excessive meetings, while employees used their extra day off for personal appointments, leading to lower healthcare costs and reduced turnover.
  • While not suitable for all industries, the study, published in Nature Human Behaviour, indicates that the positive effects of the four-day week persisted six months after the trials concluded.

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