TGIF!  That is still a common phrase used, despite the absence of the ABC TGIF lineup.  Most people can't wait until Friday evening rolls around and they can say goodbye to their work week.  What if you had every Friday off, adding an extra day to your weekend?  Would you rather work 4 ten hour shifts every week instead of 5 eight hour shifts?

The 4 day work week has been a highly debated topic in the United States.  Some of you out there might already be working such a schedule.  But for the general masses, the routine schedule is eight hours a day - five days a week.  Some states have experimented with the notion of 4 day work weeks, but most ended up going back to standard operating hours.  Of course this schedule could not apply to everyone.  There are many jobs out there that require flexibility and don't have set rigid hours.  But for those who participate in the 9 to 5 grind five days a week, this might be appealing.  For businesses that can't close their doors for three days, the days off would stagger between employees.  Some would get Fridays off, some would get Mondays off, some would get Wednesdays off..etc.  There are of course pros and cons to this notion.

Pros:

  • People have more time to spend with their families.
  • Employees save money on commuting to and from work.
  • The business saves money on energy costs.
  • Studies show that employees with a four-day workweek are more productive and happier overall.

Cons:

  • More workload during the week can lead to higher stress levels.
  • Less time during the work week to spend with family.
  • Less time to get everyday errands accomplished
  • Customers might still need you on your "day off"

Like I said, this concept is not one-size-fits-all.  It would mostly apply to 9-5, five days a week type schedules. Would this be something that appeals to you?  Do you have any more pros or cons to add to this list?  What are your thoughts?

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