Work-life balance and burnout in Gen Z: A pathway to job satisfaction through psychological well-being

Abstract

Work-life balance is important for Generation Z employees to achieve job satisfaction, while burnout affects their mental and physical conditions, influencing satisfaction. This study analyzes the impact of work-life balance (WLB) and burnout on job satisfaction among Generation Z, with psychological well-being (PWB) as a mediating variable in DKI Jakarta. The sample used in this study comprises 110 Generation Z respondents in West Jakarta, selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using Partial Least Square - Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the SmartPLS 4 software. This research provides insights for Generation Z employees to understand their psychological conditions, improve job satisfaction, and support company growth. Additionally, leaders need to recognize the importance of WLB and burnout in fostering employee synergy and performance to realize the company's vision and mission. The findings demonstrate that WLB has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction and PWB among Generation Z in West Jakarta. Conversely, burnout has a positive but not significant effect on PWB, although it has a positive and significant effect on job satisfaction. PWB significantly mediates the effect of WLB on job satisfaction, whereas the effect of burnout on job satisfaction through PWB is not significant. This research assists Generation Z employees in understanding their psychological conditions and enhancing job satisfaction, while encouraging companies to acknowledge the importance of WLB and burnout in maintaining employee synergy, performance, and supporting organizational goals.