Let’s talk about how working less can make you more effective.

As I finished up my new website, I found myself waffling over the homepage headline.

The old version said: Create more balance, stress less, and be your best.

But I had changed it to: Work less, enjoy life more, and perform even better.

This got closer to the heart of what I help people with and what I believe many leaders and teams truly are craving.

Some people loved the new version.

A few suggested I soften it—start with “performance” or say “work smarter.” But definitely don’t lead with “work less”—it might scare companies off.

I waffled. Changed it back.

Then finally I decided to be bold, trust my instincts, and own the message.

Work less, enjoy life more, and perform even better.

Because here’s what I’ve seen time and again…

What I experienced myself going from 60+ work weeks down to a 40-hour workweek (during the most demanding time in my corporate career and with young kids)…

And what recent science and data is showing…

Working less—whether that means fewer hours or simply not constantly thinking about work—makes space for a better life, well-being, and mental health.

You also make better decisions with how you use your time.

And when you feel better, you perform better.

So a healthier work-life balance, which often comes with working less, isn’t just a nice-to-have.

It’s a game changer—for leaders, teams, and organizations for better engagement, satisfaction, productivity, and retention.

But how can less effort lead to better results?

Emerging research in psychology and neuroscience is challenging the paradigm that working harder equals success.

The traditional mindset, deeply ingrained in our work culture, is that relentless hard work is the key to achievement.

But this approach often leads to burnout, decreased job satisfaction, and reduced productivity—not to mention less happiness.

When we have better boundaries between our work and personal life, our performance improves.

Again, not only because we feel better, but because we make better decisions around how we spend our time.

We prioritize and focus our efforts in a more effective way. It’s not the hours you spend working but the results you produce that truly matter.

In a landmark study by Stanford University, it was found that productivity per hour declines sharply when a person works more than forty to fifty hours a week.

And after fifty-five hours, putting in more hours is often pointless.

Mental resources are like muscles that become fatigued after extended use. The brain needs rest to recover and function optimally, just as muscles do.

Detaching from work reduces fatigue and has a positive effect on well-being, mental health, and performance.

On the flip side, studies of a 4-day work week showed that employees experienced lower stress levels and burnout, as well as improved physical and mental health.

They also found it easier to balance work and personal responsibilities.

Employees have more time to rest, engage in personal interests, and be with family and friends—all of which contribute to better overall well-being.

They were also more focused and efficient at work knowing they had extra time for personal activities.

Whether it’s sticking to a regular work week or working less than that, stronger boundaries around your work can help you be more focused and productive.

And cut out unnecessary complexity and wasted effort—and so many of those back-to-back meetings!

Moreover, this approach can be beneficial when it comes to attracting and retaining talent.

In today’s competitive job market, work-life balance is increasingly valued, and companies that promote balance are often seen as more attractive employers.

And perhaps most importantly, life is too short to be so darn busy!

This is WHY I do this work and I so committed to helping others experience this too.

That’s my line in the sand—and what I can help you with if it’s something you want.

Work less.
Enjoy life more.
Perform even better.

Now, how can this perspective help you today?

If you’re wanting a better work-life balance for yourself or your team, let this evidence shift what you believe is possible.

Give yourself permission to work less and enjoy life more.

And do one thing this upcoming week that supports you being the leader you want to be and the life you want to live.

You don’t have to do it all. You just have to start. Be a positive ripple.

I’m here cheering you on!