Impact of personality and workaholism on work-life balance in IT professionals of Sri Lanka

Abstract

The workforce is the main pillar of any organization. Therefore, employee well-being is a crucial factor same as the performance of the employee for the success and sustainability of the organization. It positively impacts their overall job satisfaction, engagement, productivity, and performance. Investing in employee well-being is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic decision for organizations. When considering the employee’s well-being, work-life is a fundamental component. When employees can maintain a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life, it positively impacts their overall health, job satisfaction, productivity, and engagement. Therefore, this research examines the factors that influence work-life balance among IT professionals in Sri Lanka. This study aims to gain insights into individual characteristics that influence the ability to maintain a healthy equilibrium between work and personal life in the context of the IT industry. The study focuses on two main factors: personality traits and workaholism as identified during the literature review. Personality traits are assessed using the Big Five personality trait model (extraversion, agreeableness, openness, conscientiousness, neuroticism) and workaholism is measured through the Workaholism Battery (work involvement, drive, work enjoyment). A conceptual framework and eight hypotheses were developed based on the factors identified. This was tested using the data collected through an online survey carried out on a sample from the target population, IT professionals in Sri Lanka. The findings reveal the extent to which each personality trait and workaholic factor influences work-life balance. All the hypotheses are substantiated, it indicates that all the personality traits have a positive impact towards work-life balance whereas workaholism factors show positive and negative influences on work-life balance. Neuroticism showed a higher impact on work-life balance whereas Work involvement and drive negatively impacted work-life balance. The findings can inform managers in designing strategies and interventions that promote work-life balance and improve employee well-being and overall organizational productivity.