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Self-control and performance while working from home

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  • Julia Baumann
  • Anastasia Danilov
  • Olga Stavrova

Abstract

This study explores the role of trait self-control in individuals’ changes in performance and well-being when working from home (WFH). In a three-wave longitudinal study with UK workers in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we find that low self-control workers experienced a significant positive adjustment to WFH over time: The number of reported work distractions decreased, and self-assessed performance increased over the period of four months. In contrast, high self-control individuals did not show a similar upward trajectory. Despite the positive adjustment of low self-control individuals over time, on average, self-control was still positively associated with performance and negatively associated with work distractions. However, trait self-control was not consistently associated with changes in well-being. These findings provide a more nuanced view on trait self-control, suggesting that low self-control individuals can improve initial performance over time when working from home.

Suggested Citation

  • Julia Baumann & Anastasia Danilov & Olga Stavrova, 2023. "Self-control and performance while working from home," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 18(4), pages 1-19, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0282862
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282862
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