The workaholics and #GirlBosses are getting tired.

So what’s a healthy amount of time to devote to work each week, according to science?

And how do experts recommend balancing work and life?

woman working at a desk in her home

But science recommends a much shorter work schedule.

Not only that, but many people aren’t even effective at their jobs after putting in long hours.

There’s some evidence that our brains can only focus for about four hours a day.

person marking work calendar with a pencil

Some lines of work require long hours to keep things moving.

Some jobs may also require different work schedules at different times.

In either situation, some boundaries are still essential to avoid working beyond your limit.

woman holding notebook and pen

Signs of burnoutcan range from trouble concentrating to digestive issues.

Others who work in high-pressure positions, such as management or healthcare roles, may also face burnout.

In cases like these, a shorter workweek may be necessary to thrive professionally and personally.

tired healthcare worker in scrubs sitting on the floor

Work can easily creep into your leisure hours, especially when you work remotely.

An easygoing 39 or 40-hour workweek can quickly become overbearing when it accidentally becomes a 45 or 50-hour workweek.

Time spent checking work after hours or extending the time spent at your desk can quickly add up.

mother working on laptop with children

woman meditating next to closed laptop and phone