Only 17 percent of people feel like going to work each day, while one in ten employees report that they ‘never feel inspired by their job’, according to research.
Social enterprise Mental Health First Aid England (MHFA England) surveyed 2,000 employees and found that only 23 percent feel enthusiastic about their job on a daily basis.
The findings, published to coincide with blue Monday —deemed the most depressing day of the year— reveal that a significant number of workers feel a lack of inspiration and enthusiasm at work.
The reality is poor mental health and low workplace engagement can affect anyone, at any time, the enterprise said, adding that the survey results highlight how important it is for employers to get to know their people.
The mental health body said that employers that make the effort to understand their workforce, who they are and what drives them, can build cultures where employees are engaged, valued and give their best.
Unappreciated junior managers
MHFA England’s research also found that junior managers are more likely to be unhappy and demotivated at work compared to their colleagues. Almost a fifth (19 percent) of junior managers report that they don’t feel appreciated for the work they do and 22 percent said they never feel inspired by their job.
Just 4 percent of junior managers said they are ‘bursting with energy’ at work each day. The enterprise said that if managers feel undervalued this has a knock on effect for their teams. It said that this workplace dissatisfaction points to a systemic need for workplaces to change their approach.
As part of its work to support better mental health, the enterprise has published a personal, proactive tool to help employees and managers identify what keeps them and their colleagues working well called ‘My Whole Self: My plan for working well.
It is designed to help create psychological safety, which is a key driver of motivation, engagement and performance. Cultures that promote psychological safety will see employee wellbeing, morale and productivity rise, the body said, adding that teams thrive when all voices are encouraged to share ideas, questions, and concerns, or admit mistakes, without fear of judgement or consequence.
MHFA England is also encouraging workplaces to take part in My Whole Self Day on 11 March 2025.
Sarah McIntosh, chief executive of MHFA England, said: “We all have days when we’re feeling less inspired and motivated at work, but our latest research shows that for many employees, especially junior managers, this is happening too often, and it is impacting our energy levels, wellbeing and performance at work.
“Understanding your people is the key to motivation and wellbeing. My Whole Self offers employers the tools to create thriving workplaces and support employers on their journey to creating high performing and happier workforces. This investment in wellbeing isn’t just good for people—it’s good for business.”
Melissa Carr, director of equity, diversity, and inclusion at the World of Work Institute, Henley Business School, said: “While organisations are striving to foster inclusive environments, there is still work to be done, particularly in supporting junior managers.
“This research highlights how junior managers are struggling to feel energised and engaged at work, which is critical for their wellbeing and motivation. Organisations and employers can make a difference through providing meaningful opportunities to have a voice and contribute to decision making, by offering inspiring and purpose-driven work and finally, ensuring access to wellbeing and mental health support.
“By addressing these needs and providing better support to junior managers, organisations can create workplaces where people not only thrive, but they feel valued and supported.”
