A new survey by Resume Now sheds light on the complex dynamics of managing extra responsibilities at work. While 65% of professionals feel empowered to say no to additional tasks, many still face emotional and mental health challenges, particularly younger workers (25 and under) and women.
1. Empowerment vs. Burnout
- Empowered Workers: 65% of employees feel they can say “no” to extra work.
- Young Workers Lead: 77% of those aged 25 and under feel empowered, compared to 66% of those aged 41+ and 56% of workers aged 26-40.
- Burnout Prevails: 59% of workers report frequent burnout due to challenges in declining extra responsibilities.
2. Emotional Impact of Declining Extra Work
- Relief and Confidence: 42% of employees feel relief, and 31% feel confident prioritizing tasks when saying “no.”
- Guilt and Stress: Younger workers experience the most guilt (26%) after declining extra responsibilities.
3. Gender Disparities in Setting Boundaries
- Men vs. Women: Men are more comfortable setting boundaries (69%) than women (62%).
- Emotional Reactions: Women report higher frustration (43%) and difficulty concentrating (41%) due to workload stress compared to men.
4. Proactive Strategies to Combat Burnout
- Setting Boundaries: 34% of workers manage stress by adjusting workloads or seeking support.
- Job Changes: 28% of employees have left a role due to stress or burnout.
5. The Ongoing Challenge of Workload Management
- Balancing Acts: 42% of workers struggle to manage workload expectations.
- Interference with Personal Life: 52% report occasional disruption, and 12% face constant interference with personal or family time.
The survey underscores a critical workplace challenge: balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being. Despite increasing empowerment to decline extra work, burnout and mental health struggles persist. Employers must address these issues by fostering a supportive culture, encouraging open communication, and providing tools to manage workloads effectively.
