Work-related stress can frequently leave individuals feeling fatigued and overwhelmed. Anxiety in other areas of life may exacerbate this issue, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Georgia.

Burnout is a well-known, draining sensation for many individuals. Though typically linked to professional life, external factors such as financial strain can also contribute.

The researchers conducted a survey with over 200 full-time workers in the United States and discovered that prevailing concerns regarding financial management might elevate burnout levels and diminish job satisfaction. This suggests that stress in one area of life can spill over into others.

Camden Cusumano, the lead author and doctoral candidate at UGA’s College of Family and Consumer Sciences, drew a parallel to medicine: similar to how an injury in one part of the body may cause discomfort in another area, personal financial pressure can impact an individual’s workplace performance.

Financial well-being may influence burnout

There are three primary indicators of burnout: firstly, depersonalization, which is the feeling of detachment from oneself or those around. Secondly, emotional exhaustion, resulting in individuals often feeling fatigued. Finally, there is diminished personal accomplishment, where personal achievements feel less rewarding.

All three of these factors combine to create a sensation that can leave employees feeling drained and disengaged from their responsibilities. While an increased workload or lack of independence could be contributing factors, researchers aimed to explore whether elements outside of work impacted both burnout and job satisfaction.

Through an online questionnaire, 217 full-time workers shared their burnout experiences and job satisfaction levels. They also responded to inquiries concerning current financial management stress and their feelings about future financial security — both essential elements of financial well-being.

According to the employees’ feedback, those experiencing more stress regarding current financial management exhibited a higher incidence of burnout, which in turn led to reduced job satisfaction.

Concerns regarding future financial stability might also affect job satisfaction. If an employee feels anxious about their current circumstances, having the belief that their financial situation could improve might enhance their perception of their job.

Alleviating financial stress might enhance job satisfaction

So how can burnout be addressed? The researchers indicated that employees can alleviate their anxieties by remaining conscious of the sources of financial stress in their lives. They likened financial well-being to a resource and suggested that managing those resources might help mitigate concerns.

Employers can also contribute by supporting their employees and enhancing job satisfaction.

Programs concentrating on immediate financial worries could aid in reducing burnout, while emphasizing how one’s job can positively influence future financial stability may directly enhance job satisfaction. If employers acknowledge these distinctions, it could guide them in developing programs that genuinely benefit their employees.

The study was published in the Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health and co-authored by Dee Warmath from UGA’s College of Family and Consumer Sciences.

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