The idea of reducing working time is one that has received much attention. For several years now, this topic has regularly appeared in public debates, not only in Poland, but also in many other countries.
Employees are increasingly saying they are overburdened, lacking time for their private life, health, and family. Statistics from Poland reiterate this narrative; the country is one of the busiest nations in the European Union.
At the same time, more and more countries are experimenting with “smarter work”. In Iceland, Belgium, Spain and even Japan, various models of a shorter working week have already been tested or introduced. The results? Mostly positive: higher productivity, reduced sick leave, improved working atmospheres.
Four-day working week: Social expectations are clear
Today’s labour market is vastly different from that seen a century ago, when the eight-hour working day was first introduced in Poland. Technology, automation and societal changes mean that many jobs can be done faster and more efficiently. Today, more than ever, it is not necessarily the time spent in the office that counts, but the quality of the work done.
Employers have diverse reactions
There is no single opinion among employers when it comes to the topic of the four-day working week. Large companies, especially in the creative and technology industries, are looking at the idea with interest. Some are already introducing flexible working hours or testing shorter weeks.
The situation is different in the SME sector, as small and medium-sized companies are usually more cautious. They fear that a shorter week could lead to cash flow problems, a drop in revenue or the need to hire additional staff.
This is why the government’s financial support could be crucial for businesses trialling the new work model, protecting against the risk of serious losses.
The effect on the economy
Advocates of a shorter working week argue that less time spent at work doesn’t have to lower productivity.
On the contrary, they argue that by organising work in a smarter way, the same — or even better — results can be achieved in less time.
Studies in other countries show an increase in efficiency, reduced resource use, fewer errors and increased team creativity.
Of course, there are also sceptics. Some economists warn that there could be an increase in companies’ operating costs and, consequently, a decrease in competitiveness or a stifling of GDP growth.
To tackle these risks, the pilot project aims to rely on data rather than guesswork.
Tried and tested examples from Poland
Some employers are already taking decisions to reduce working hours. Herbapol Poznań, as well as city halls in Włocławek, Ostrzeszów, Świebodzice or Leszno are just a few examples of institutions that have decided to take this step.
The conclusions? Employees are more engaged, less stressed and the quality of their work is higher.
Four days a week: A new working philosophy
Changing the working model is not only an organisational issue. It’s also a mental shift — from a time-control approach to one that rewards efficiency, trust and a healthy work-life balance.
Although the pilot comes with risks, advocates of the model say it is an opportunity to ensure that professional success is not paid for by burnout.
The pilot in Poland could be the first step towards systemic change, which many are already waiting for.
