A recent study conducted by Hagstofan (Statistics Iceland) reveals that men and women allocate an average of three hours daily to personal needs. The report, published on International Women’s Day, breaks down how women specifically spend their time, stating that women dedicate approximately 4.5 hours a day to education, work, and travel, while also averaging 8.9 hours of sleep. Additionally, the report indicates that women contribute about 2.7 hours to household management and 2.9 hours to self-care activities. This data emerged from time-use research performed by Hagstofan in 2023, aimed at examining the daily lives and time preferences of both genders.

An official at Hagstofan emphasized that the average does not accurately reflect any single individual's experience, citing a notably low response rate in the study. This means the findings could be less representative of the overall population, as individual circumstances can vary widely. The results raise questions about gender roles and the expectations placed on women regarding household responsibilities and self-care, highlighting areas for further research and discussion.

The findings not only shed light on gender disparities in time use but also encourage a conversation about the importance of equitable distribution of domestic duties and personal time across genders. As discussions about work-life balance and gender equality continue to gain traction globally, this report serves as a vital contribution to understanding how time is spent differently by men and women, and the implications this has on societal norms and personal well-being.