The majority of UK employees start their workday without energy or inspiration, a new survey suggests. Just 17% of workers feel motivated to go to work daily, with less than a quarter (23%) expressing enthusiasm about their jobs. And one in ten employees say they never feel inspired at work at all.
The findings, released by training provider Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) England as part of its My Whole Self wellbeing campaign, highlight a significant challenge for workplaces across the country. While the concept of “Blue Monday” often draws attention to seasonal blues, this data points to a year-round issue of low workplace engagement and wellbeing.
Junior Managers Report Feeling Undervalued
Junior managers appear to bear the brunt of workplace dissatisfaction. According to the survey, 19% of junior managers feel unappreciated, and 22% say they never feel inspired by their roles. Only 4% of junior managers report feeling energised each day — a startling statistic given their pivotal role in leading teams.
Sarah McIntosh, chief executive of MHFA England, called attention to the broader implications of these findings. “We all have days when we’re feeling less inspired and motivated at work, but MHFA England’s 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,” she said.
McIntosh added that employers must prioritise understanding their workforce to tackle these challenges. “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.”
She said that companies’ “investment in wellbeing isn’t just good for people; it’s good for business.”
Psychological Safety: The Key to Thriving Teams
MHFA England is advocating for workplaces to create cultures of psychological safety, where employees feel comfortable sharing ideas, raising concerns, and admitting mistakes without fear of judgement. This approach is central to My Whole Self: My Plan for Working Well, a new programme aimed at boosting motivation and wellbeing.
Dr Melissa Carr, director of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion at the World of Work Institute, Henley Business School, pointed to the importance of such efforts. “While organisations are striving to foster inclusive environments, there is still work to be done, particularly in supporting junior managers,” she said.
“This research highlights how junior managers are struggling to feel energised and engaged at work, which is critical for their wellbeing and motivation.”
Carr encouraged organisations to empower their people through meaningful opportunities and access to wellbeing resources, noting that such investments foster workplaces where employees feel valued and supported.
MHFA England is urging organisations to take part in My Whole Self Day on 11 March 2025, an initiative designed to promote psychological safety and better workplace culture. Employers can access free tools, including the My Whole Self MOT and the My Whole Self: Managers’ Toolkit, to help create thriving teams.