The world’s most northern gaming studio Fingersoft, hailing from Finland, is winning big by letting people work fewer hours with a pay cut. Wellbeing and motivation are at an all-time high. Even those who stayed with full hours report feeling more energized.

The company wanted a science- and data-based approach. They had professionals observe and measure the trial in which they experimented with 80 percent of the weekly hours for 90 percent of salary. People could do either shorter days or take one day a week off.

The experiment was done in the name of supporting the team in various life seasons and helping people cope with the Covid disruption. 25% of the staff joined in. Many with kids, studies, or health challenges were eager to try it out.

It, well, worked. Clear improvements took place even in a country where the baseline is already extraordinarily elevated. Finland is, after all, according to an annual global Gallup survey, the world’s happiest country for the fifth year in a row.

Psychological wellbeing was the biggest beneficiary. As their mental state improved, the Fingersoft employees started to experiment with new hobbies, did more sports and ended up making heathier food choices accelerating the virtuous cycle. Reportedly, the mood at the workplace improved also for those who didn’t take part in the trial.

An outside evaluator documented that the participants’ overall sense of wellbeing, agency, and efficiency was elevated so much that the company has just decided to continue and hone the concept for another six months. The intention is to make it a permanent option at the end of the trial.

In addition, flexible hours and remote working continue to be available to everyone.

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