How to Succeed with a Reasonable Work Schedule

Certain industries – startup tech companies, law firms, and investment banks – are notorious for demanding long hours from their employees. Many of these companies expect their staff to work evenings and weekends, week after week. However, this doesn’t have to be the case for everyone. It is possible to achieve success while maintaining a reasonable work schedule. In fact, there are several reasons why working fewer hours can actually improve your chances of success.

1. Improve Decision-Making by Working Fewer Hours

Throughout the workday, we are constantly faced with decisions. Whether it’s choosing between suppliers or hiring new employees, the quality of our decisions can be affected by fatigue. According to an article in the New York Times, decision fatigue is a real phenomenon that can lead to poor decision-making. By working fewer hours, you can conserve your decision-making energy and make better choices.

2. Produce More Creative Solutions by Avoiding Excessive Work

In today’s workplace, we are often confronted with new and complex problems that require creative solutions. However, research shows that exhaustion can hinder our ability to come up with innovative ideas. The Atlantic reports that overwork and stress make it more difficult to achieve success in the knowledge economy. Setting limits on your working hours, as is common in many European countries, can help you maintain a fresh and creative mindset.

3. Reduce Conflict by Slowing Down

During conflicts or differences of opinion, rushing to conclusions can escalate the situation. When we hurry through meetings and conversations, we are more likely to damage relationships. Psychology Today suggests that slowing down conversations is an effective technique used by hostage negotiators to solve high-stress situations. Taking the time to slow down and truly listen can improve your performance during conflicts.

4. Improve Focus by Taking Time to Exercise

Mental clarity and freshness are essential for success when dealing with complex tasks. Research from The University of Texas at Dallas shows that aerobic exercise, such as running, improves memory and cognitive function. Incorporating exercise into your daily routine can help you maintain focus and enhance your ability to remember important tasks and procedures.

5. Understand When You Work Best and Do Your Hardest Tasks Then

Most people have varying energy levels throughout the day. Identifying when you have the highest energy levels can help you determine the best time to tackle challenging tasks. For example, author and coach Hal Elrod wakes up before 5am and completes most of his work by 12pm. By aligning your most important tasks with your peak energy levels, you can increase your productivity and minimize mistakes.

6. Build Your Home Support System to Stay Productive

A supportive home environment is crucial for maintaining productivity. Spending quality time with loved ones, including your spouse, is essential. While occasional long hours may be necessary, it’s important not to make it a way of life. A distracted or disorganized home can make it much harder to focus on work. Commit to leaving work at a set time each day and communicate this schedule to those at home.

7. Give Yourself Short Breaks

Trying to power through a long workday can be stressful, and often leads to procrastination. Taking short, focused bursts of work and then allowing yourself a break can help maintain productivity. Entrepreneur John Lee Dumas recommends working in 53-minute segments, followed by a short break. This method can help you stay focused and avoid burnout.

In conclusion, it is possible to achieve success without sacrificing your well-being and personal life. By working fewer hours, you can improve decision-making, produce more creative solutions, reduce conflicts, improve focus, build a supportive home environment, and give yourself short breaks. Remember, success is not solely determined by the number of hours you put in, but rather by the quality of your work and your ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance.