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- Introduction
In modern workplaces, employees are often encouraged to go the extra mile, show commitment and deliver exceptional results. This has created an environment where enthusiasm and drive are rewarded, but sometimes, this enthusiasm becomes excessive. Overzealousness refers to an overly intense eagerness or commitment to work, often accompanied by taking on more tasks than manageable, working long hours, or pushing oneself and others beyond reasonable limits.
While organisations benefit from motivated employees, overzealous behaviour is a double-edged sword. It can boost productivity and spark innovation, but it can also lead to exhaustion, stress and strained workplace relationships. Understanding both sides helps employers and employees channel enthusiasm positively without creating harmful pressure or burnout.
This article explores the positives and negatives of overzealousness at the workplace.
- The Positives of Overzealousness at the Workplace
2.1 Increased Productivity and Performance
Overzealous employees often produce more than expected because they bring high energy and focus into their work. Such workers often set high standards for themselves, meet deadlines promptly and commit to completing difficult assignments. When managed well, this can significantly improve organisational output.
2.2 Higher Job Satisfaction and Retention
Employees who are enthusiastic about their jobs often report greater satisfaction because they feel connected to their responsibilities and goals. This sense of purpose can make work more enjoyable and meaningful.
When employees feel engaged and fulfilled, they are more likely to remain with an organisation, reducing turnover costs. Their positive attitude can also attract new talent and contribute to a more vibrant workplace culture.
2.3 Positive Mindset and Motivation
Overzealous employees typically bring enthusiasm to the workplace that can influence others. Their passion may inspire colleagues to stay committed and focused, contributing to improved team spirit.
Furthermore, such employees often become problem-solvers and take initiative without being prompted, making them valuable assets within teams that depend on creativity and proactive thinking.
3.4 Contribution to Organisational Growth
Organisations benefit when employees are driven, committed and enthusiastic. With adequate support, fairness and clear expectations, overzealousness of employee can contribute to innovation, faster project completion and overall development of the organization.
When enthusiasm of employees is balanced and properly directed, it strengthens organisational competitiveness and enhances long-term success.
- The Negatives of Overzealousness at the Workplace
3.1 Burnout and Exhaustion
The major drawback of excessive zeal is burnout. Many employees who are driven to perform at high levels end up experiencing emotional, mental and physical exhaustion. Studies highlight that even highly engaged individuals can suffer serious burnout when work intensity is too high or prolonged.1
When burnout occurs, performance drops sharply - and employees often lose the passion they once had.
3.2 Declining Productivity from Overwork
More hours do not always equal better results. Overworking leads to fatigue, which reduces concentration, increases mistakes, and often leads to redoing tasks.2 Organisations may initially see productivity spikes from overzealous employees, but long-term output can decline as fatigue sets in.
3.3 Poor Work-Life Balance and Stress
Employees who push themselves too hard often sacrifice family time, rest, and personal interests. Over time, this leads to significant stress, poor sleep and dissatisfaction.3 A poor work-life balance also affects relationships and personal well-being, creating long-term consequences that extend beyond the workplace.
3.4 Emotional Exhaustion and Negative Behaviour
Overzealous employees may become emotionally drained, and this exhaustion can sometimes lead to irritability, impatience, or withdrawal. Emotional exhaustion often increases the likelihood of counterproductive behaviour, especially when employees feel unsupported.4 This can damage team relationships and overall workplace harmony.
3.5 Health Problems and Workaholism
Extreme overzealousness often resembles workaholism, which is linked to poor sleep, health problems, and long-term physical strain. Eventually, this not only affects employee well-being but also increases healthcare costs and absenteeism for employers.5
- Conclusion
Overzealousness in the workplace is a complex behaviour with both clear benefits and significant risks. On the positive side, it boosts productivity of employees, enhances job satisfaction, motivates teams and drives organisational growth generally. However, when unchecked, it leads to burnout, declining productivity, stress, exhaustion and long-term health issues for the employees.
The goal is not to discourage work enthusiasm and zeal but to maintain balance. Employers should set realistic expectations, ensure adequate rest periods, and create environments where employees feel supported rather than pressured. Employees, in turn, must recognise their limits, practice self-care and pursue sustainable work habits.
When work enthusiasm is balanced with well-being, both organisations and individuals reap the best rewards.
Footnotes
1 University of Cambridge (2018), "Many highly-engaged employees suffer from burnout" available at < https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/many-highly-engaged-employees-suffer-from-burnout > accessed on 13th November, 2025.
2 Residency Advisor (2025), "The Hidden Costs of Overworking: A Deep Dive into Burnout" available at < https://residencyadvisor.com/resources/work-life-balance/hidden-costs-overworking-burnout > accessed on 14th November, 2025.
3 International Research Journal Publishers (2025), "Worklife Balance and Employee Performance in Tourism Fund, Kenya" available at < https://www.irjp.org/index.php/irjbsm/article/download/385/376? > accessed on 14th November, 2025.
4 HaoChen,Orlando C.Richard,O.Dorian Boncoeur andDavid L.FordJr. (2020), "Work engagement, emotional exhaustion, and counterproductive work behavior" available at < https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0148296320301909 > accessed on 20th November, 2025.
5 DanilaMolinaro, VicenteGonzález-Romá and PaolaSpagnoli (2025), "Workaholism and job performance: testing indirect relationships via work engagement and poor sleep quality" available at < https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12144-025-07403-z > accessed on 28th November, 2025.
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