It has long been debated whether there should be fewer working days during the week and more days off. As I see both advantages and disadvantages to this topic, I can only partially agree that this is a necessary change in society. An increase in free days will result in more time for employees to rest; however, it can also have negative and destructive consequences for individuals.
On the one hand, having more time for oneself will satisfy one’s need for self-fulfilment. Instead of being locked up in the office, people can engage in numerous activities they usually do not have enough time for. Busy parents will finally be able to visit their children’s football matches or dancing concerts. This will lead to a higher amount of family-bonding activities and an increased level of happiness. In the southern regions of Spain, the working week was shortened from 5 to 4 days, which resulted in higher life satisfaction and a higher level of happiness in the area. It should be mentioned that it also directly impacts work performance, so it might be considered a win-win for both employers and their workers.
On the other hand, those who do not plan to involve themselves in more spiritual and exciting endeavors will most likely fall into a trap of deviant behavior. Citizens from rather dysfunctional families might end up with drug abuse and a higher alcohol intake, as they will have no better alternative in their free time. Recent studies have shown that working people who have previously been engaged in illegal activities are less likely to return to those habits if they work more than 40 hours per week. Moreover, fewer working hours mean lower salaries, which could put the country’s economy in danger and many lives at risk.
In conclusion, I share the opinion that fewer working days are beneficial for a better work-life balance. Nevertheless, I also believe that certain problems, such as criminality, are possible to occur in the aftermath of the mentioned changes in the working week.