How managers can help employees navigate tough decisions without burning out

Abstract

This paper examines the dilemma of having to perform a resource-intensive task under conditions of resource depletion. Drawing from data on resource-depleting tasks in multiple contexts, we document three distinct forms of self-management (equipping, conserving, and restoring the self) that individuals use across three distinct phases of the task (preparation, execution, transition) to manage psychological resources, and we detail the particular practices used to serve each of these core resource management functions. We offer a series of practical suggestions for organizations to help employees manage these psychologically difficult tasks.