Art at Work: Enhancing Employee Well-Being Through Creativity

Abstract

This paper examines the rising levels of workplace dissatisfaction among Gen-Z, focusing in particular on the factors that contribute to widespread apathy within this demographic. It aims to illustrate how issues like lack of belonging and fulfillment are reflected in statistics on workplace dissatisfaction. To contextualize this generational discontent, the paper analyzes shifts from the Baby Boomer era to today's workforce, which will soon be predominantly made up by Gen-Z. By investigating the key factors hindering workplace happiness for Gen-Z, this paper offers insights into the roots of their overall discontent with work. As a potential solution, it recommends incorporating the arts into the workplace to alleviate dissatisfaction, offering employees opportunities for agency and a strengthened sense of belonging. The paper provides current examples of workplace strategies that successfully integrate the arts and suggests practical ways businesses of any size can adopt similar practices.