Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, Vol 30(3), Jun 2025, 156-175; doi:10.1037/ocp0000398
Acceptance research in the organizational sciences has shown that practicing acceptance can reduce anxiety and enhance performance at work. Our research aims to deepen understanding of these effects by considering how and when acceptance influences work anxiety and performance. We integrate cognitive resource allocation theory with workplace mindfulness and acceptance research to develop a model in which acceptance lessens work anxiety and improves work performance via cognitive resource crafting. Further extending the model, we investigate chronic time pressure as a moderator dampening the positive effect of acceptance on cognitive resource crafting. Across four studies (Study 1: experiment; Study 2: 1-day between-person study; Study 3: 5-day experience-sampling study; Study 4: 10-day experimental experience-sampling study), we found support for our hypothesized model. We discuss theoretical and practical implications regarding how and when to effectively utilize acceptance to promote workplace well-being and performance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved)