How many hours will we work in 2050?

If the long-term trends continue at their historic rates, the work week might average 27 hours by the year 2050. The secular trend away from the formalized work contract to other socially obligatory activities and free time implies numerous challenges for human societies.

Are people happier working less hours?

If you want to achieve the perfect blend of productivity, happiness, and time affluence, a more realistic goal is to work slightly below 40 hours per week. The research shows that even shaving an hour or two off of the standard 40-hour workweek can have huge benefits, both at work and at home.

What will the future of work look like in 2050?

Work will increasingly become more fluid as some employees will be virtual, some will be full-time, some will be bots, and we will all be working non-fixed hours. As with any kind of change, there will be pros and cons.

Why working less hours is better?

The productivity boost derived from shorter working hours is about more than streamlining processes and incentivising employees with days off, however. A key factor, say experts, is that working fewer hours leads to happier, healthier, more engaged workforces. We know that working long hours takes a toll on wellbeing.

Why is working less better?

Less work, more sleep, better life. There is also evidence that too much work impairs our health, leading to poor sleep and an increased risk of conditions such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Crucially, working less has many psychological benefits. It means less stress and anxiety.

Why do working hours vary around the world?

Working hours across the world are falling, but considerable variation remains. In some countries people work 70\% more hours per year, on average, than in other countries. Much of this variation is due to differences in the prevalence of part-time work and patterns of female labor market participation.

Is it possible to reduce working hours through technological change?

There is constant pressure to reduce working hours on grounds of work−life balance considerations. Debate is ongoing as to whether and how this can be achieved through technological change, without causing a regressive redistribution of income away from less skilled workers.

Do you get paid for hours worked or hours worked?

Those who work fewer hours will be paid only for hours worked, so they will see their weekly earnings fall below those who work longer. This arrangement comes into effect in January 2019 and will be revisited and perhaps revised in two years when the agreement comes to an end.

Will shorter hours in the workplace increase or decrease gender inequality?

Currently women and younger people are more likely to work shorter hours in the workplace than men and older people. Hence an economy with more working shorter hours will result in weekly and annual earnings differentials between women and men and between younger and older workers to remain if not increase.