HOW DIET AND EXERCISE RELATE TO WORK ENGAGEMENT, SELF-ESTEEM, SELF-EFFICACY, AND MOTIVATION

Abstract

This study investigated the interrelationships between diet, exercise, work engagement, self-esteem, self-efficacy, and motivation. Responses were gathered from 193 full time employees in the United States. Correlation, regression, and moderation analyses were conducted to ascertain the nature of the relationships. Overall, physical activity was found to be directly related to work engagement. Specifically, participants reporting higher levels of physical activity also reported higher levels of work engagement. Additionally, diet was significantly related to physical activity, self-esteem, and self-efficacy such that a healthier diet was associated with higher levels of all three of these variables. This research provides reasons for organizations to take greater interest in the wellbeing of employees.