U.S. worker wellbeing hits record low: Gallup survey

WASHINGTON, D.C., UNITED STATES — The American workforce is experiencing unprecedented levels of career dissatisfaction and declining overall well-being, marking a significant shift in workplace dynamics and employee satisfaction.

Declining workplace satisfaction

Employee well-being has hit a historic low, with only 50% of U.S. workers reporting they are thriving in their overall lives. This represents the lowest figure since Gallup began tracking workplace wellbeing in 2009, a contrast to the peak of 61% recorded in 2016 and 2017. 

The decline began in 2020, with only a brief uptick in early 2021 during the initial COVID-19 vaccination rollout. 

Gallup’s Life Evaluation Index, which gauges individuals’ current life situation and their outlook for the next five years, reflects broader trends in employee sentiment. When employees maintain positive well-being, they demonstrate 53% fewer health-related absences and are 32% less likely to seek alternative employment. However, the current trend suggests these benefits are increasingly at risk.

Meanwhile, the U.S. ranked second place in ManpowerGroup‘s Global Talent Barometer with 72% in employee well-being.

Career stagnation crisis

Amidst these well-being challenges, a recent Glassdoor survey reveals another troubling trend: 65% of U.S. workers feel stuck in their careers, attributing their stagnation to limited advancement opportunities, a slow hiring landscape, and frequent reports of layoffs. 

This widespread sentiment of career stagnation stems from multiple factors, including:

• Diminishing career advancement opportunities
• Slowing hiring rates across industries
• Continuous news of corporate layoffs

Looking ahead

The situation reflects a broader transformation in the American workplace, where traditional career paths are becoming less certain. The transition from the pandemic-era labor shortages and Great Resignation to the current period of economic uncertainty has created a complex environment where workers are struggling to find meaningful career progression. 

This shift represents a challenge for both employees and employers, necessitating new approaches to workplace satisfaction and career development.