The motivation-sapping toll of financial stress
Disclaimer: We at Groov are not financial advisors and the below is intended to be informative only. Please seek independent financial advice before making any financial decisions.
It’s hard to bring your best self to work and life when your mind is stuck on bills, debts, or how to make ends meet. Financial insecurity can weigh on your motivation, focus, and overall wellbeing.
Research shows that financial stress is a major predictor of reduced engagement and productivity at work. One study linked financial worries to increased absenteeism, while others found that employees struggling with money concerns are more likely to feel distracted, overwhelmed, or emotionally drained on the job.
The psychological load of financial insecurity is heavy. When people feel unsafe about their financial future, the brain’s bandwidth for creativity, problem-solving, and long-term planning narrows. It’s hard to stay motivated on work tasks when basic security feels uncertain.
Financial insecurity is a multi-faceted problem. It’s rarely just an individual issue — it’s usually shaped by wider forces like the economy, industry pay averages, or cost of living. Wealth inequality is on the rise around the world, there’s no quick fix.
There are positive movements, though. On the organisational side, more companies are recognising the value of financial wellbeing programs — from access to financial counseling, to workshops on budgeting and debt management, to offering fair pay and transparent benefits.
On a personal level, something that can bolster your wellbeing and resilience during this tough time is talking about financial stress. Speaking it out loud reduces stigma, but it also has a psychological effect: it can shift your brain out of fight-or-flight and reactive areas linked to planning and problem-solving.
Financial stress is very challenging. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone and that support exists. Please consider reaching out to a trusted professional for guidance.
Below are some additional resources you can go to for support.
Australia
National Debt Helpline - to speak with a financial counsellor.
New Zealand
Sorted.org.nz - for help with the cost of living, including money tools and guides.
MoneyTalks - for immediate financial help and support with managing your money.