Slowing down?

Now I understand why the workers in the Scandinavian countries work less, but with more efficiency.

When you're at work for 7 or 8 hours, it doesn't necessarily mean that you're actually working for 7 or 8 hours. Lots of time is spent socializing (which can be argued that it enhances work place harmony), surfing the internet, personal phone calls/emails, etc etc. From my limited work experience, it seems like at least a few hours a week is spent on doing these things instead of working.

Of course, without real evidence to back up my claim...but I think cutting our work week to 30 hours wouldn't damage our economy too much. Plus, people won't get as stressed and have more time for other activities (e.g. volunteering, leisure, continuing education).

Although...all this saved time won't be very productive if you increase your commute by living further from the office...