The Thief of Time and Social Sustainability: Analysis of a Procrastination at Work Model

Abstract

Although research on procrastination at work is scarce, existing studies indicate its negative effects in multiple spheres of personal and professional life, with repercussions on individuals’ well-being and social sustainability. This study proposes a model that aims to clarify the relationships between the antecedents and consequences of procrastination at work. We follow a bi-dimensional conceptualization of procrastination at work, using the dimensions of soldiering and cyberslacking. The model includes boredom at work as a predictor and work stress and job satisfaction as outcomes. Data from a sample of 287 participants were analyzed with Partial Least Squares. Results show that boredom at work is positively associated with both soldiering and cyberslacking. Results also show that soldiering increases work stress and decreases job satisfaction. Cyberslacking has no significant effects on work stress or job satisfaction. The theoretical and practical implications of this study are further discussed.