German workers divided on working hours as government eyes reform

Germany's Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health survey reveals a split among workers regarding working hours. While a majority wish to shorten their current work time, 8% expressed a desire to work more. This comes as the government contemplates reforms to the Working Time Act, potentially allowing for more flexible weekly hours and stricter documentation requirements.

High performers, often characterized by their ability to work long hours without stress, find rigid schedules and mandated breaks counterproductive. They thrive on deep concentration, even late into the night, and are motivated by challenging tasks rather than strict adherence to a clock.

"Die Zeit" is soliciting reader feedback on this topic. The publication wants to understand the "why" behind the drive to work extensive hours, whether a shorter timeframe could accommodate the same workload, and the personal impact of precise time tracking. Readers are also asked about the advantages and disadvantages of removing daily maximum working hours, how their social circles react to their work ethic, and their strategies for work-life balance.