“JOB STRESS AND PERFORMANCE: THE MEDIATING ROLE OF WORK-LIFE BALANCE IN ORGANIZATIONAL SETTINGS”

Abstract

The relationship between job stress and employee performance has been a focal point of organisational research, with growing attention to the mediating role of work-life balance in shaping these dynamics. This study explores how work-life balance functions as a critical intermediary, influencing the extent to which job stress impacts employee performance in various organisational settings. Drawing on theoretical frameworks and empirical evidence, the research highlights that if unmanaged, high levels of job stress can significantly deteriorate employee performance, leading to diminished productivity and organizational outcomes. However, when employees achieve a healthy work-life balance, the adverse effects of job stress are mitigated, fostering resilience and enhancing overall job performance. The findings underscore the importance of organizational policies that promote work-life balance as a strategic approach to not only alleviate job stress but also to optimize employee performance. This study contributes to the broader discourse on human resource management by offering insights into the mechanisms through which work-life balance can serve as a buffer against job stress, ultimately supporting the well-being and efficiency of the workforce.