The protective power of psychological resources in mitigating burnout and enhancing flourishing

Purpose This study explores how burnout mediates the relationships between critical psychological resources, specifically resilience, flow and self-efficacy, and flourishing in contemporary work environments. Design/methodology/approach Data from 374 participants, including undergraduate students at a regional comprehensive university in the Midwest and full-time working adults in the USA, were analyzed using mediation analysis in MPlus 8.11 to assess the indirect and direct effects among burnout, psychological resources and flourishing in a work environment. Findings Results indicate that self-efficacy significantly predicts lower burnout levels and higher flourishing. Resilience and flow were negatively associated with burnout, reducing its impact; however, the direct effects on flourishing were not statistically significant. Burnout mediated the relationship between these psychological resources and flourishing. The findings highlight self-efficacy as a promotive psychological resource that directly and indirectly enhances flourishing, while resilience and flow showed no significant indirect effects. Practical implications This study offers a novel perspective by highlighting the mediating role of burnout in linking psychological strengths (resilience, self-efficacy, and flow) to flourishing, and contributing to fresh insights into employee flourishing research. Originality/value This study advances research on workplace flourishing by highlighting the importance of enhancing self-efficacy and reducing burnout to foster a more resilient, engaged workforce.