Switched to a 4-day work week - AMA if helpful

Jan 181 min read

Took a pay cut (about 15%) but been doing this for 3 months now and wanted to share in case it helps someone. I negotiated Fridays off and honestly the extra day with my kids has changed everything. Less rushing in the morning, I actually help with homework, we do stuff together on Fridays. Money's tighter but we adjusted. The hardest part was getting over the guilt about "not working as much" - like I still feel weird about it some days. But my boss has been cool and my productivity on the 4 days I'm there is actually better. Not saying everyone can do this but if you're thinking about it, happy to answer questions.

6 comments437 views

Comments(6)

EEric M.RegularJan 19

This is the dream honestly. 15% seems manageable depending on where you live. Did your employer push back on it or were they cool with it from the start?

DDave K.ExperiencedJan 19

Been thinking about doing exactly this. How did you handle the client side of things? Was it awkward explaining the schedule change?

SSeanNew DadJan 19

Real talk - do your kids actually notice the difference or do they still expect you to be available during work hours on your day off?

JJason T.RegularJan 20

The mental health difference alone is worth the pay cut. I did something similar and had more patience with my kids on that extra day than I had all month before.

MMason T.RegularJan 21

How much quality time did that extra day actually buy you? I'm considering this but worried the pay cut isn't worth it if I'm just catching up on work stuff at home anyway.

CCarlosRegularJan 21

Did you negotiate the cut or did they offer it? Trying to figure out how to even bring this up to my manager without sounding like I don't want to work.