Unravelling motives and time use of additional leave in a flexible benefits plan: a mixed-methods case study in Belgium

Working-time reduction emerges as a promising measure for fostering a well-being economy, as it allows reconsideration of time allocation between paid labour and other activities, potentially improving human and environmental well-being. This study investigates the motives for and planned time use of additional leave in the context of a flexible benefits plan, a specific form of working-time reduction. Data were collected from a Belgian media company in 2022 using a mixed-methods approach, comprising a survey (N=241) and semi-structured interviews (N=13). Findings show that a mix of motives matters for choosing additional leave (push, pull, personal, contextual, and specifics of the plan). Desire for more leisure is a primary driver, while difficulties in taking up standard leave are a key barrier. Employees plan to use extra leave for diverse activities, mainly personal and social activities, household tasks, travel, and ad-hoc pursuits. Preferences vary by parental status; couples with children primarily intend leave for caregiving. Primary intended activities align with increased well-being and have relatively low environmental impacts, though positive effects may be partially offset when paid work is replaced with unpaid care/household work or when time is spent on environmentally intensive travel. These findings tentatively suggest that choosing additional leave in flexible benefits plans could contribute to a well-being economy.

Damaris Castro, Brent Bleys