Skip to main content

Trading siestas for the 9 to 5

Jan 12 2005 by Brian Amble
Print This Article

A campaign has begun in Spain to do away with marathon lunches and a languid, unproductive afternoon and replace it with the 9-to-5 routine common in the rest of Europe.

According to the International Herald Tribune, "Spain has become a nation of sleepy souls who wake early and go home late, but no longer stop to nap in between," leaving Spaniards with an average of 40 minutes less sleep than the European average.

Supporters say that shortening the workday would also give a boost to Spain's economy. Spaniards work more hours per week than the average European, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, but they accomplish less.

International Herald Tribune | In Spain, some dream of trading siestas for 9 to 5

Related Categories

Latest book reviews

MORE BOOK REVIEWS

Relationship Currency

Relationship Currency

Ravi Rajani

In an era where AI can draft emails and manage our schedules, 'Relationship Currency' is a timely reminder of the importance of investing in genuine human connection.

The Enlightened Manager

The Enlightened Manager

Vishwanath Alluri and Harry Eyres

Can we truly manage others without first understanding ourselves? This is the question at the heart of a book that takes an unconventional approach to management by drawing on the teachings of the teacher and philosopher, Jiddu Krishnamurti.

The Voice-Driven Leader

The Voice-Driven Leader

Steve Cockram and Jeremie Kubicek

How can managers and organisations create an environment in which every voice is genuinely heard, valued and deployed to maximum effect? This book offers some practical ways to meet this challenge.