We spent memorial weekend (aka the unofficial start of Summer) camping at the coast with some friends. We rode bikes, flew kites, and sat around the campfire getting our fill of s’mores and belly laughs.
It’s sure not the same as going to the beach in Mexico, but it was good to be back by the ocean and smell the salty air. Even if only for a few days.
These long weekends always feel like such a treat, but they also leave me wondering why the 4 day work week hasn’t become a thing yet? It just makes SO. MUCH. SENSE.
While some companies (and countries) have started to experiment with this idea, progress is still slow. But among those who have implemented the change, research has found that almost across the board a four-day workweek significantly increases job satisfaction, decreases burnout, and reduces employee stress. All good things right?
Europe is a bit further along in this process than we are here in the states (because of course they are) . . . with pilot studies in the U.K, Spain, Portugal, and South Africa finding that shorter workweeks allowed people more quality time with their loved ones, time to sleep, and exercise, and making that work-life balance we’re all seeking feel a little more possible.
People over profits, who would’ve thought?
Although as it turns out, the two are not actually mutually exclusive.
A 2019 study at Henley Business School reported that companies that adopted a four-day week found that over three-quarters of their staff (78%) were happier, less stressed (70%), and took fewer sick days (62%).
And in one of the largest experiments on the 4-day work week in the UK, 96% of staff said their personal lives had benefited, while 86% felt they performed better at work, and 38% felt their organization had become more efficient overall.
There are even significant benefits among students.
With longer weekends, students have more time to rest and engage in extracurricular activities, which can lead to improved academic performance, and better attendance during the week. And that’s not to mention improved morale among teachers.
Why the soapbox this morning? No real reason, I’m just feeling a need to question a lot of the societal norms that just don’t feel normal.
I’m interested in a new normal, one that values our time as a more important currency.
And in the meantime I’m trying to savor this Summer season while it lasts. Because as author Jenny Han wrote,
“Everything good, everything magical, happens between the months of June and August.”
We can only do so much in these few months, especially while trying to balance work and family. Making dinners and mowing the lawn, you know, adulting things.
But somehow these longer days make everything feel a lot more possible. And I tend towards delusional optimism when it comes to how much can be done in short periods of time.
Here are a few simple things I’m focusing on this season:
1. Getting outside for movement
More sunlight is good for our bodies in so many ways so I’m trying to take advantage of the longer days by exercising outdoors whenever possible. And there are few things that make me happier than starting the day with a bike ride or a walk outside.
2. Eating mindfully with 30-30-3
I really like Dr. Amy Shaw’s simple approach to nutrition in midlife.
30 grams of protein in your first meal
30 grams of fiber daily
3 probiotic rich foods daily
All simple things to focus on while also enjoying the fresh fruits and veggies that are so plentiful this season.
3. Spending more time in nature
Less time on screens and more time in nature is something I’m always striving towards. Working 100% online makes it challenging but more time spent in nature, disconnected from technology is good for my brain. And probably for yours too. Whether it’s a hike through the desert, a walk in the forest or a day at the beach day, it’s all good!
4. Staying hydrated!
On days when it’s hot and I start feeling tired and grumpy 9 out of 10 times it’s because I haven’t had enough water to drink. Keeping a pitcher in the fridge filled with cucumber, mint, and citrus slices makes staying hydrated a little more enjoyable and can be a real lifesaver in the summer.
5. Making a summer idea list
I do this mostly because I like any excuse to make lists, and also because writing things down makes it so much more likely to actually happen. So I’ve got a long list of trails I want to hike, places to camp, ideas for quick overnights and weekend trips, crafts to make and recipes to try. And also leaving lots of space to lay in the grass, sip lemonade, watch movies and thunderstorms, and wander obscure outdoor festivals.
I’m trying to prioritize the things I want more of: more walks outside, more riding bikes, more time with my people, more meals enjoyed outside . . . because Summer doesn’t last long, but it’s real good while it’s here. However you’re spending yours, I hope it’s a good one 🫶
xx
Ashley
P.S. Happy Solstice this week! Here are 7 Rituals to help you make June Solstice magic