Exploring the Idea of a 2-Hour Workday While Earning a Full-Time Salary
I’ve been pondering the possibility of working fewer hours while still earning a full-time salary. Especially with the shift to remote work, I’ve noticed a trend among my tech friends who’ve embraced the flexibility that comes with it. They’ve managed to maintain the same productivity in fewer hours, freeing up time for personal activities like tennis, attending daytime baseball games, or even just napping and traveling more.
This shift in working patterns got me thinking about the potential to reduce my work hours while still securing full-time pay and benefits. However, the realization hit when my wife pointed out that none of my friends who enjoyed this lifestyle had children, highlighting a significant difference in our situations.
Dreaming of a Two-Hour Workday
My ideal workday would involve four hours of focused work—two hours in the early morning, an hour in the afternoon, and another in the evening. This schedule seems optimal for maintaining productivity without burning out. Interestingly, I came across a scenario where some employees at a digital mortgage company, Better.com, were accused of working only two hours daily while being paid for eight. This revelation by the CEO during a mass layoff caught my attention as it highlighted the extreme possibilities of remote work.
The Joy of Working from Home
One of my readers shared his experience with remote work. He mentioned that his job became significantly easier post-pandemic because he eliminated commuting and office time that was often not productive. Now, he effectively works around 15 hours a week, although this has increased his anxiety slightly as he needs to be available to respond to work calls or issues promptly.
With so much free time, he now engages in activities like golf, daily workouts, and regular appointments for personal care, which occupy much of his day.
Industries with Better Work-Life Balance
Since starting my blog, Financial Samurai, I’ve realized that not all industries are created equal when it comes to work-life balance. Management consulting, technology, and law are three sectors where remote work has significantly improved the balance, reducing the need for excessive travel or long office hours.
Conversely, industries like banking are experiencing a boom, leading to increased workloads that make it unlikely for employees to reduce their working hours.
Navigating Remote Work and Company Surveillance
Remote work comes with increased surveillance as companies use software to monitor employee productivity. Everything from keystrokes to browsing history can be tracked, so it’s crucial to avoid personal tasks on work devices.
If you prefer not to be monitored so closely, setting clear expectations about availability and working hours with your employer can help maintain privacy and ensure you meet job requirements without feeling overwatched.
The Future of Work
The current job market favors employees, allowing for more negotiation around remote work and flexible hours. However, it’s essential to remain productive and align with company goals, especially during economic downturns or performance review periods.
In conclusion, while the idea of working less for full pay is appealing, it’s crucial to balance this with the responsibilities and expectations of your role. As remote work evolves, it offers a unique opportunity to redefine productivity and work-life balance tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
