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Some nations are known for their dedication to hard work, with long hours and a strong focus on productivity. In these countries, the pursuit of success is deeply ingrained in daily life. Read on to find out which ten nations are the hardest working in the world.
Mexico
What drives Mexicans to work more than 2,226 hours annually? Economic necessity and cultural dedication keep employees in offices, factories, and fields well beyond 48 hours a week. With minimal paid leave, workers push through grueling schedules to sustain their livelihoods.
Costa Rica
Balancing multiple jobs is common in Costa Rica. Notably, employees work 2,149 hours yearly. Agriculture and tourism dominate the economy, demanding extensive labor. While some benefit from flexible schedules, many face unpredictable hours, which keeps Costa Rica’s economy highly productive despite its relatively small workforce.
Colombia
Colombians clock approximately 2,297 hours annually, making them some of the hardest-working individuals globally. The informal job sector contributes heavily to these numbers, as many take on side hustles to stay financially afloat. Labor laws exist, but enforcement remains inconsistent, allowing excessive work schedules to persist.
Chile
As the country modernizes, productivity expectations remain high. Mining, finance, and retail industries propel Chile’s workforce to an average of 1,962 hours per year. Here, extended shifts, especially in urban centers, are routine. Yet, growing labor movements push for policies balancing efficiency with worker well-being.
South Korea
Long office hours remain ingrained in South Korean work culture. Employees log 1,901 hours annually, often working well beyond official limits. Although government reforms aim to curb overwork, expectations in corporate and industrial sectors result in long hours that drive career progression but challenge work-life balance.
India
With 2,117 hours worked annually, India’s labor force thrives on sheer determination. The IT, manufacturing, and service industries set a demanding pace, with many professionals balancing day jobs and freelance projects to boost their earnings. Despite labor laws, the culture of long workdays persists, deeply embedded in the nation’s economic framework.
Japan
Productivity defines Japan’s workforce. Rigid corporate hierarchies and societal expectations foster an intense work ethic, logging 1,607 hours per year. Recent efforts to enforce a better work-life balance are slowly taking effect, but many industries still struggle to eliminate unpaid overtime and excessive after-hours commitments.
United States
The nation’s fast-paced economy and competitive job market leave little room for downtime. While flexible jobs and remote work options exist, many still take on multiple roles, which leads many to work more hours than are officially documented. Notably, Americans average 1,810 work hours per year.
Greece
Greece has long been known for its resilience in the face of economic challenges. With an average of 1,897 working hours per year, the Greek workforce remains among the most dedicated in Europe. Tourism and maritime industries demand extended hours, keeping productivity levels high while workers balance multiple responsibilities.
Israel
Innovation and ambition fuel Israel’s workforce, which averages 1,880 hours per year. The thriving tech industry, alongside national security and defense roles, drives long workweeks. Employees in high-stakes industries often put in extra time. This allows the country to maintain its reputation as a global leader in innovative advancements.
