While many European countries and some U.S. companies are adopting a four-day workweek, Greece is heading in the opposite direction. Effective this week, the country’s new legislation introduces a six-day workweek for businesses operating 24 hours, aiming to boost productivity. Workers can opt to work up to 48 hours a week, with a 40% bump in overtime pay for the extra day.

This move contrasts with the trend of reducing the workweek to four days, which research shows benefits productivity, employee well-being, and satisfaction. The Greek government believes the six-day workweek will address labor shortages, ensure proper overtime pay, and tackle tax evasion linked to undeclared work. However, worker advocates warn that this change could lead to unintended consequences like high turnover, burnout, illness, and even death.

The notion of a six-day workweek diverges from the global shift toward shorter workweeks. In the U.S., a significant majority of workers believe a four-day, 40-hour workweek would positively impact their well-being, according to a recent Gallup survey. U.S. companies that have adopted or piloted shortened workweeks report seeing benefits. For example, companies have noted improvements in productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall well-being. These companies have also found that a reduced workweek can help attract and retain talent, as employees value the increased flexibility and work-life balance.

Globally, more countries are considering shorter workweeks. France is piloting a four-day workweek, while Belgium officially approved it in 2022. Iceland, Japan, and South Africa are also experimenting with the concept. These countries are exploring the potential benefits of shorter workweeks, such as increased productivity, improved employee health, and greater overall satisfaction.

Despite the growing interest in shorter workweeks, challenges remain. Concerns about staffing, potential productivity drops, increased costs, and complex operational changes persist. Employers worry that reducing the number of workdays could lead to staffing shortages and difficulties in maintaining productivity levels. Additionally, there are concerns about the costs associated with transitioning to a shorter workweek, including potential increases in wages and operational expenses.

Greece’s move contradicts much research showing that increasing work hours can harm productivity. Longer hours often lead to more mistakes, slower task completion, and increased exhaustion, stress, and illness. Studies have shown that overworked employees are more likely to experience burnout, decreased motivation, and higher rates of absenteeism. These factors can ultimately negatively impact the overall productivity and profitability of businesses.

The Greek legislation allows for a 48-hour workweek but does not mandate it. European Union laws require employers to ensure employees don’t exceed 48 hours per week on average, including overtime. However, there is concern that the legislation creates a perception of choice because the increased pay incentivizes longer hours. This could make employees feel pressured to work additional hours, even if it negatively affects their health and well-being.

Despite Greece’s stance and the slow adoption of shorter workweeks, future trends likely favor fewer working hours. Companies are expected to continue learning how to improve efficiency, leverage technology, and realize benefits for workers and profits. Shorter work hours, when implemented effectively, can benefit businesses, employees, and the economy. Research indicates that reduced workweeks can lead to higher productivity, improved employee satisfaction, and lower turnover rates.

As companies continue to explore and adopt shorter workweeks, they will need to address potential challenges and find ways to optimize their operations. This might include investing in technology to streamline processes, reevaluating job roles and responsibilities, and fostering a culture that values work-life balance. By doing so, businesses can create a more sustainable and productive work environment that benefits both employees and the organization as a whole.