MAP Strategic Wealth Advisors

The Concept of the Weekend Is Dying

Five takeaways:

1. The modern, two-day weekend was codified in the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938, which also gave us the common eight-hour work day/40-hour workweek model. This article argues that modern workers are experiencing an erosion of the classic 2-day weekend by overbooked schedules, constant notifications from their mobile devices, and increasing employer demands.
2. Economic Fragility, near-universal use of personal devices for work, and the rise of the gig economy have all contributed to the breakdown of the distinction between the workweek and weekend free time.
3. There are physiological costs to missed rest and relaxation, including increased levels of stress hormones and decreased ability to focus. Increased hours spent at a desk can bring on weight gain and increase general anxiety.
4. Making space for time away from work isn’t just about productivity — it also makes you a better person. It allows time for connection with others or the self, for the activities we are passionate about, and for creativity.
5. Employers need to work hard to ensure their employees are taking time for themselves on weekends, and employees should feel more empowered to voice concern when weekend work becomes a common occurrence.

From Katrina Onstad at NBC News

Read the whole story.