Ever wondered why we work five days out of the week and only get two to ourselves? This system would suggest that human beings are placed on this Earth to work until the age of retirement (60 for those of us here in South Africa) or death. Resulting in the fortunate few to enjoy the fruits of their labour in a body that is less than ideal. This may very well be the fundamental issue that the 4 Day Week SA Pilot Programme is addressing. Sounding like the over idealistic brainchild of someone wanting to stick it to the status quo, its merits are based on fact.
A Global Phenomenon
Andrew Barnes and Charlotte Lockhart founded 4 Day Week Global as a non-profit community committed to supporting the idea of a four-day work week. This concept arose as a result of the worldwide interest received in response to a successful programme initiated in 2018 at New Zealand-based Perpetual Guardian. In addition to the extraordinary amount of media attention garnered, the programme went on to be adopted by countries across the globe. Most recently the UK boasts the largest number of participants with 70 companies and approximately 3300 employees.
“Being an early adopter and market leader in reduced-hour, productivity-focused working establishes businesses as innovative, progressive and forward-thinking. The greatest risk is that your competitors try this before you do.” Andrew Barnes.
Leading to a Local Solution
Our country has had more than its fair share of trials and tribulations. The COVID-19 pandemic has only aggravated the challenges caused by load shedding, a weakened economy and a staggering youth unemployment rate of 46,5% as of Q2 this year. As a tech startup offering web design, development, support and copywriting services, Big Beard Web Solutions has decided to take a stand against these seemingly overwhelming odds. In joining the 4 Day Week SA Pilot Programme, we seek to play our part in solving the varied problems plaguing our beautiful country. The hope is to engender that feeling of being proudly South African, reminding fellow citizens there is still a reason to be positively expectant.
“As part of a personal 2022 mission to be more organised, structured and consistent, I happened upon the pilot programme. In chasing after the Big Beard Web Solutions “why”, the main motivation is to adopt a people-focused approach in answer to our most pressing challenges.” Nathan L Simons, Founder & Managing Director at Big Beard Web Solutions
A worst-case scenario would reveal that a four-day work week is not sustainable and that human beings are nothing more than tools of labour. A best-case scenario could very well lead to changes in government reform, a healthier work-life balance and for us to reconsider our duty towards this planet and its inhabitants. Either way, all will be revealed by the latter half of 2023 and we’re excited to be pioneering the movement here in the Rainbow Nation.
Legend has it that the beards of prehistoric humans were so thick and rich, that they could cushion blows to the face! Which is why at Big Beard Web Solutions, we fortify your website by putting a beard on it. Get in touch to make your online presence Bigger. Beardlier. Best.
