Reference: Found here
Now there’s more data showing that “productivity anxiety”—the feeling that there is always more you should be doing—is pervasive in the workplace in this country. A Workhuman survey of 1,000 full time employees found that 61% of U.S. workers say they’re productive at work, but it comes at a cost. A total of 80% report they have “productivity anxiety” and over one-third have it multiple times a week.
“Driven by the tech boom of the 1990s, hustle culture has glamorized overworking, promoting the idea that constant productivity is a badge of honor that sits at the cornerstone of success and innovation,” she says. “This narrative teaches employees that to achieve their professional goals, they must constantly strive to perform better, often at the expense of personal well-being and mental health.”
The American Institute of Stress reports that job stress costs U.S. employers more than $300 billion annually due to absenteeism, turnover, decreased productivity and direct medical, legal and insurance costs. Ironically, the WHO estimates depression and anxiety cost the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity.
In terms of the psychological costs, Martin recognizes that the relationship between employee well-being and productivity is complex and multifaceted, adding that “productivity anxiety” can lead to feeling dissatisfied with progress or overwhelmed by a never-ending to-do list and a fear of failing. “When a person’s drive to achieve is motivated by self-doubt or fear, it can lead to consistent psychological and physical stress,” she notes. This strain not only impacts the individual but can also permeate team dynamics and ultimately shape the culture of an entire organization.”
