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Could your favorite hobbies help you get ahead at work? New research published in Organization Science explores “leisure-work synergizing,” a novel strategy for integrating professional development into leisure activities. The findings suggest that this approach can help employees thrive in their careers while enjoying their personal lives—but only if used in moderation.
“We found that employees who intentionally integrate professional growth into their free time—like listening to leadership podcasts, watching TED Talks or reading engaging business books—report feeling more confident, motivated and capable at work,” says Kate Zipay, one of the study authors and professor at Purdue University. “This innovative approach allows individuals to build skills and thrive professionally without sacrificing the enjoyment of leisure activities.”
The study, “Have Your Cake and Eat It Too? Understanding Leisure-Work Synergizing and Its Impact on Employee Thriving,” also highlights potential challenges. For employees who prefer strict boundaries between work and personal life, blending the two may feel overwhelming and lead to fatigue.
“Employees who prefer a clear separation between work and personal life might struggle with this approach, highlighting the importance of tailoring the practice to individual preferences,” says Zipay.
For others, leisure-work synergizing offers a way to make downtime more fulfilling while advancing professional goals.
“This isn’t about making your free time feel like work,” says Zipay. “It’s about leveraging activities you already love in a way that fuels your professional growth. Done right, it’s a game-changer for employees and employers alike.”
Zipay and co-author Jessica Rodell, professor at the University of Georgia, emphasize that these insights have far-reaching implications. As more employees seek ways to balance demanding careers with meaningful personal lives, leisure-work synergizing offers a fresh, practical solution. Employers can also use these findings to support skill development and employee well-being, creating a win-win for both sides.
More information:
Kate P. Zipay et al, Have Your Cake and Eat It Too? Understanding Leisure-Work Synergizing and Its Impact on Employee Thriving, Organization Science (2024). DOI: 10.1287/orsc.2021.15472
Citation:
Can you really have it all? Study explores how to succeed at work without sacrificing free time (2025, January 28)
retrieved 17 February 2025
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Source : Phys.org