"نه صبح تا پنج بعد از ظهر یکی از بزرگترین فجایع است"

The core idea here is that traditional work hours—clocking in at nine and clocking out at five—are inherently limiting and can stifle creativity and freedom. It suggests that adhering rigidly to this schedule can feel like a trap rather than a structure that supports productivity and well-being.

Historically, the concept of the nine-to-five workday originated during the industrial era, when factory jobs were the norm. It was designed for a time when work was more about physically being present and doing a specific task, rather than the knowledge and creative work most of us do today. The system worked well when tasks were repetitive and needed to be done in a synchronized manner. But times have changed, and for many of us, the same old schedule might not be the best fit anymore.

Think about someone who works best in the evenings. Maybe during the day they find themselves distracted, their energy levels low, and their creativity stifled. Forcing them into a nine-to-five schedule means they’re not working at their best when they’re at work, and they’re not free to use their peak hours for their own projects or relaxation.

Take the example of Sarah, a graphic designer. She’s a night owl and does her best work between 8 PM and 2 AM. But her job requires her to be at her desk from nine to five. Every day is a struggle. She’s groggy in the morning, her ideas don’t flow, and she’s often daydreaming about the sketches she wants to work on later. By the time she gets home, cooks dinner, and unwinds, she’s too tired to put in the effort her personal projects deserve. As a result, both her job performance and personal satisfaction suffer.

Now, imagine if Sarah’s job allowed for flexible hours. She could start her workday at noon and work until 8 PM. She’d wake up rested, have a leisurely morning, and hit her stride just as she’s starting her workday. Her productivity would soar, as would her happiness and creativity.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? If you’re in a position to negotiate your work hours, do it. Explain to your boss that you’ve noticed you’re more productive at certain times and propose a trial period with flexible hours. If you’re a manager or business owner, consider implementing flexible hours for your team. Trust them to manage their time and focus on their output rather than the hours they clock in.

Imagine John, a software developer who’s struggling with the nine-to-five grind. He talks to his manager about it, and they agree to a one-month trial where John can work from 10 AM to 6 PM. Instantly, John feels more in control. He’s not rushing in the morning, and he’s using his commute time to listen to podcasts and learn new things. His mood improves, and so does his code. By the end of the month, his performance has noticeably improved, and his manager decides to make the change permanent.

In essence, the nine-to-five model might have worked for our grandparents, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Challenge the status quo, and find what works best for you. You might find that a simple shift in your workday can lead to a profound change in your overall happiness and productivity. And isn’t that what we’re all striving for?