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Resilience and Grit for Sustainable Well-Being at Work: Evidence from High-Pressure Service Organizations

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  • Arzu Atan

    (Department of Business Administration, Faculty of Business, Economics & Social Sciences, World Peace University, Nicosia 99010, Cyprus)

  • Nalan Gelirli

    (Department of Civil Aviation Management, Faculty of Business, Economics & Social Sciences, Cyprus Aydin University, Kyrenia 99320, Cyprus)

Abstract

This study investigates how resilience and multidimensional happiness at work (HAW), comprising work engagement, job satisfaction, and affective organizational commitment, contribute to grit among employees in high-pressure service environments. Drawing on Fredrickson’s Broaden-and-Build Theory, we test a model using data collected in 2024 from 293 employees at an international airport in Cyprus. Structural equation modeling reveals that resilience significantly enhances both grit and all three HAW dimensions. Among them, affective commitment emerged as a key mediator linking resilience to grit, while job satisfaction showed a surprising negative effect on grit. These findings highlight the importance of fostering eudaimonic rather than purely hedonic well-being to build sustainable motivation in emotionally demanding roles. Our results contribute to the sustainable work and well-being literature by positioning resilience and commitment as psychological resources that support organizational adaptability and long-term employee performance. This study offers actionable insights for leadership, HR strategy, and the promotion of sustainable workplace cultures, particularly in aviation and airport operations, where employee well-being directly impacts safety, service quality, and crisis readiness.

Suggested Citation

  • Arzu Atan & Nalan Gelirli, 2025. "Resilience and Grit for Sustainable Well-Being at Work: Evidence from High-Pressure Service Organizations," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(16), pages 1-16, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:16:p:7486-:d:1727550
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bruno S. Frey & Reto Jegen, 2001. "Motivation Crowding Theory," Journal of Economic Surveys, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 15(5), pages 589-611, December.
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