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Sample Essay 1
It is widely contended that a reduction in the number of working days per week, accompanied by an extended weekend, would be beneficial. I strongly support this viewpoint, as it promises to boost productivity and improve mental health among employees.
Firstly, a shorter workweek is linked to increased productivity, as confirmed by several international studies. Research by Stanford University economist John Pencavel revealed that employees tend to produce less after exceeding 50 hours of work per week. Similarly, countries like the Netherlands, which embrace shorter work hours, consistently show high productivity rates per hour. These findings underscore that fewer working hours can lead to more efficient outputs. This efficiency stems from employees being more focused and energetic when adequately rested, ultimately enhancing their ability to solve problems and innovate. This not only benefits their employers but also contributes positively to the broader economy by boosting overall economic output and reducing employee burnout.
Secondly, longer weekends contribute significantly to improving mental health. According to psychological studies and statements from organizations like the American Psychological Association, engaging in leisure activities during extended weekends helps reduce stress and prevent depression, enhancing overall well-being. An illustrative example is Sweden's experiment with a six-hour workday, which led to workers being happier, healthier, and more productive. This approach allowed individuals more time for personal and family activities, boosting their job satisfaction and performance. The extra downtime enables employees to recuperate more fully from work stress, resulting in a more vibrant, engaged, and effective workforce. Additionally, it fosters a healthier work-life balance, which is crucial for long-term mental health and sustained employee engagement.
In conclusion, the advantages of a shorter workweek, coupled with extended weekends, are twofold: they enhance employee productivity and contribute significantly to their mental health. Societies that understand and implement these changes are likely to see not only happier and healthier individuals but also more competitive and successful economies.
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Sample Essay 2
It is argued that the working week should be shortened, as employees deserve a longer weekend. I totally agree with this statement because it increases workers’ efficiency and mental health.
The main reason why I believe longer weekend seems to be beneficial is that it increases workers productivity and efficiency. To be more specific, weekends are a refreshing break for workers since it provides them considerable time to get a rest. It is readily apparent that workers will be more efficient and productive after sufficient rest, leading to a higher productivity. For instance, most workers’ productivities decrease after working eight hours a day, let alone continue working for five complete days; hence, shorter working week undeniably makes those workers concentrate on their tasks and work in efficient way. In this situation, the competitiveness of society will increase, which positively impact the community.
Another factor supporting my opinion is that it enhances workers’ mental well-being. If workers are able to spend quality holiday traveling or getting closer to nature, there is no denying that they can escape from their hectic schedule in their daily life, which increases their mental health. In other words, longer weekend grants workers opportunities to engage in some outdoor activities, providing unique chances to release their pressure and preventing mental health issues such as depression. Take myself as an illustration If I wish to travel to the southern part of Taiwan, I need to have at least three day-offs due to the long distance; therefore, having longer weekend enables me to plan a travel to those far cities instead of just hanging out in my neighbourhood, where does not have any natural landscape or spectacular architecture.
In conclusion, I want to reiterate my agreement of the implementation of longer weekend in the workplace. This is because shorter working week increases the productivity and enhances mental well-being of workers.
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