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Currently, an engaging leisure option is a show set in the past depicting New York's high society in the Gilded Age. One storyline lightly explores factory laborers protesting for what they call “888”: eight-hour periods dedicated to work, sleep, and recreation.

This demand was not new at that time. The slogan, attributed to social reformer Robert Owen, was first used in 1817. Even earlier, a 16th-century regulation capped construction workers in the Americas to eight-hour days.

What might Owen or Philip II of Spain react to “996”? This concept describes being on the job from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days out of a week – totaling 72 hours of grind. Starting in the tech sector in China, 996 was famously called a “blessing” by a well-known business leader. However, employees in China pushed back, mobilizing online and prevailing in court cases with companies.

Today, 996 is resurfacing – and it probably remained in practice. Reports indicate that employees in various sectors are required to endure extended hours. Within tech hubs, embracing such hours is considered essential for success. Employment ads sometimes state extreme work schedules and stress that applicants must be enthusiastic by the idea. Talent scouts are instructed that an openness to endure such hours is mandatory.

One publication announced that hustle mentality has returned and grindier than ever. A business owner described the mindset as: “No drinking, no drugs, 996, lift heavy, run far, marry early, track sleep, eat steak and eggs.” One more shared about often being on Saturdays and Sundays and doing their best work after dark.

Many people are puzzled about this shift. Weren't we collectively moved away with the grind mentality? Positive outcomes from four-day week initiatives prove that the vast majority of involved firms chose to continue the new schedule. Considering other nations, progressive approaches to work that balance personal and professional duties don't always hurt output and can create improved well-being.

For instance of the Netherlands, which has a typical working week is about 32 hours. Even with shorter hours, this state is doing better than similar countries and places fifth in the latest global well-being index.

Moreover, reports indicate of increasing disinterest in overwork, notably in the new workforce. Polls from leading companies revealed that work-life balance emerged as the key consideration in choosing an employer. Historically, this aspect outranked pay in worker preferences.

So what are we seeing fresh, extreme push for overwork? Some hypotheses might explain this trend. First, it might represent the last gasp of a outdated belief – a final flare-up as it winds down. On the other hand points to recent research revealing that too much labor results in mental alterations. Research conclude that people who work too much display alterations in brain regions linked to cognitive control and feelings control. Observing certain well-known tech leaders, that idea fits well. Maybe people with altered mental states could think that such a schedule are good or effective.

Given that innovators often love new ideas, maybe their tired brains could be convinced that grueling hours are old hat with creative options. Which ideas would be accepted? Many desire three-day weeks, not far from a scholar's formerly suggested 15-hour workweek. Others propose a specific ratio of work to rest, or dedicating one day in the office and more time for oneself. Perhaps with a catchy name and talk that it boosts longevity, these alternatives could be the latest craze in demanding work environments.