A four-day work week is an emerging trend that’s making waves in the workplace, offering a fresh approach to balancing our professional and personal lives. For young people, especially those of us navigating the complexities of starting our careers or continuing our studies – sometimes at the same time – this new structure can be a game-changer.

The benefits of a four-day work week extend beyond just having an extra day off. With an additional day to rest and recharge, we can potentially reduce stress and burnout, leading to a more positive mindset and wellbeing improvements. Studies have shown that when we have more time to unwind, our productivity during workdays increases. A 2019 trial in New Zealand, for instance, found a 24 percentage point improvement in work-life balance among employees who worked four days a week and a 7 percentage point reduction in stress levels.

Financially, working fewer days doesn’t necessarily mean earning less. In fact, it can open doors to new opportunities. With an extra day, we have the flexibility to explore side hustles or passion projects that could generate additional income. Whether it’s starting a small business, offering freelance services, or investing time in further education, the potential to boost our earnings while pursuing something we love is substantial.

Efficiency is another area where a four-day work week shines. When we know we have less time to complete our tasks, we tend to be more focused and efficient. This heightened focus can lead to higher quality work and better performance, which can be beneficial for career growth and job satisfaction. Employers are beginning to recognise that productivity is about quality, not just quantity, and a well-rested, motivated workforce is more likely to deliver outstanding results.

For First Nations students and young professionals, this shift can be particularly beneficial. Balancing cultural responsibilities, education, and work is often challenging. An extra day can provide the time needed to participate in community activities, support family, and engage in cultural practices, all while maintaining academic or professional commitments.

What to consider first

To be smart about approaching a four-day work week, it’s essential to assess if it aligns with your personal and professional goals. Here are some strategies to consider:

Evaluate your workload: Consider whether your current workload can be effectively managed within four days. It may require streamlining processes or prioritising tasks to ensure that essential work is completed without feeling rushed.

Communicate with employers: Consider having an open conversation with your employer about the possibility of a four-day work week. Present the potential benefits, not just for yourself but for the team and the organisation. You may think about highlighting examples from other companies that have successfully implemented this model.

Plan your time: Effective time management is crucial. Consider using tools and techniques like to-do lists, calendars, and time-blocking to stay organised and ensure that you’re making the most of your workdays.

Pursue side interests: Identify what you’re passionate about and how you can turn that into a side hustle. Whether it’s arts and crafts, tutoring, or digital marketing, there are countless opportunities to explore. Take online courses, attend workshops, and network with others in your field of interest to build your skills and connections.

Monitor your wellbeing: Regularly check in with yourself to see how the new schedule is affecting your mental and physical health. Adjust your routine as needed to maintain a healthy balance.

Recent statistics from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) indicate that around 13 per cent of people were engaged in multiple jobs in 2023. This trend suggests that more of us are looking for ways to diversify our income streams, and a four-day work week could facilitate this. Moreover, reports from organisations that have adopted this model show increased job satisfaction and lower turnover rates, suggesting that it could be a sustainable option for long-term career development. Again, the four-day week is not for everyone, so it’s important to establish your own goals and income needs.

For students and young professionals, the flexibility offered by a four-day work week can be particularly empowering. It allows us to honour our commitments and communities while advancing our careers and education. As we continue to navigate our paths, considering innovative work structures like the four-day work week could provide the balance and opportunities needed to thrive.

Like every article on this website, this is not personal financial advice.

If you need free, crisis mental health support, you can always contact 13 YARN (13 92 76).