FACTS — AUTONOMY & CONTROL AT WORK
“A sense of control can influence wellbeing at work.”
Having some appropriate autonomy over how, when or where work is completed can help employees manage demands, use their strengths and feel more engaged in their role.
A lack of control can be particularly difficult when someone already has a demanding workload, health condition, disability, caring responsibilities or additional needs.
What can autonomy look like?
Depending on the role, it might include:
- Having some flexibility around start and finish times.
- Choosing the order in which suitable tasks are completed.
- Having input into deadlines and priorities.
- Being able to plan periods of focused work.
- Having control over when appropriate breaks are taken.
- Choosing a quieter workspace where possible.
- Having flexibility to work from home when appropriate.
- Being involved in decisions that directly affect your work.
- Being trusted to complete tasks without unnecessary monitoring.
- Having clear expectations while still being able to use your own working style.
Why can this matter?
When people have very little control over their working day, even relatively small demands can begin to feel overwhelming.
Having appropriate autonomy may help someone manage their energy, concentration, sensory needs, executive functioning and workload more effectively.
For some neurodivergent or disabled employees, flexibility can also help reduce unnecessary barriers to working.
Autonomy does not mean working without structure
Some employees actually function better with clear routines, defined expectations, written instructions and predictable deadlines.
The important point is finding the right balance between structure and individual control.
Managers can support autonomy by
Giving clear outcomes while allowing flexibility in how they are achieved, discussing priorities rather than assuming them, involving employees in decisions and asking:
“What helps you work at your best?”
Remember
People do not necessarily need complete control over their work to benefit from autonomy.
Sometimes relatively small choices can make a meaningful difference.
Having a voice in how we work can contribute to feeling respected, trusted and supported at work.
Space to Breathe Therapy
