HORSHAM, PA — Nearly half of U.S. employees do not feel fulfilled at work, while a small minority who report high levels of fulfillment consistently cite impact, appreciation, harmony and personal growth as the factors most closely tied to their work experience, according to a survey released by MeaningSphere.
The career development company said its 2026 State of Workplace Fulfillment Report surveyed 522 workers across industries, income levels and geographic regions. Fifteen percent of respondents described their work as highly fulfilling, while almost half reported they were not fulfilled.
The findings come as employers continue to grapple with employee engagement and burnout. MeaningSphere cited estimates that disengagement and burnout cost the global economy about $438 billion annually in lost productivity, while only one-third of workers worldwide report they are thriving overall.
Among survey respondents, 84% identified feeling appreciated and valued, along with having an impact on others, as the most important contributors to workplace fulfillment. About one-third said having more time to pause and reflect would be the most accessible way to improve their work experience.
The report also found a distinction between employees who reported high fulfillment and those who did not. Workers who described themselves as fulfilled were more likely to focus on factors within their control and emphasize personal growth, meaning and influence. Those reporting lower fulfillment were more likely to view changing employers, roles or workplace culture as the primary path to improvement.
Jeff Westphal, founder of MeaningSphere, said the findings suggest employees who focus on aspects of work they can influence are more likely to experience fulfillment.
“When we take charge of our worklife fulfillment, we realize more of it,” Westphal said.
Support the local news that supports Chester County. MyChesCo delivers reliable, fact-based reporting and essential community resources—free for everyone. If you value that, click here to become a patron today.