The Rise of Microshifting: A New Work Schedule Preference

As the traditional 9-to-5 work schedule faces scrutiny, a significant shift towards "microshifting" is emerging among workers. According to Owl Labs' 2025 State of Hybrid Work report, 65% of employees express interest in microshifting, which involves working in short, non-linear blocks tailored to personal energy levels and responsibilities. Frank Weishaupt, CEO of Owl Labs, notes that this trend reflects a desire for greater control over fragmented work lives, a sentiment that gained traction during the pandemic when remote work allowed for more flexible time management.

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Microshifting appears particularly beneficial for parents and caregivers. The Owl Labs report indicates that caregivers are approximately three times more likely to adopt this scheduling method compared to non-caregivers. Theresa Robertson from Elkridge, Maryland, exemplifies this trend. Having balanced her career as a project manager with caregiving for her late husband, Robertson adapted her work schedule to accommodate medical appointments and other responsibilities. She emphasizes the importance of flexibility, stating, "I had more control over my day where I could stop and decide, okay I need to check his blood pressure and then go back to work." Now running a virtual assistant agency, Robertson continues to microshift, allowing her to manage both personal and professional commitments effectively.

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Microshifting not only provides flexibility but also fosters a sense of autonomy among workers. Doug Gregory, a self-employed audiovisual integrator, has practiced microshifting for years, finding it essential for balancing work and personal life. He explains that this approach allows him to adjust his schedule as needed, stating, "If I need to take an hour off during the day to go do something... it's okay, I make up for it in the evening." This adaptability is increasingly valued in a workforce that has grown accustomed to prioritizing personal well-being alongside professional obligations.

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Owl Labs' report highlights a significant shift in worker preferences, suggesting that the pandemic has permanently altered perceptions of work-life balance. Employers may need to consider these changing dynamics to attract and retain talent in a competitive job market.

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While many workers advocate for microshifting, some critics argue that not all job roles can accommodate such flexibility. Traditional office environments may struggle to implement non-linear work schedules, potentially leading to disparities in employee experiences based on their roles and responsibilities.

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• “Microshifting appeals to employees not just as a scheduling preference, but as a way to reclaim control over their increasingly fragmented work lives,” — Frank Weishaupt, CEO of Owl Labs

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• “the day is more fluid” — Doug Gregory, Audiovisual Integrator

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As the workforce continues to evolve, microshifting may represent a significant shift in how employees approach their work schedules, emphasizing flexibility and personal responsibility.

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