<i>Decoding the role of leadership on employee's life satisfaction</i> – through the mediating pathway of work passion and work-to-life interface

Purpose This study explores the interactive domains of work passion, work–life interface and leadership behavior. Drawing support from the Conservation of Resources Theory and the Work-Home Resources Model, we empirically tested the mediating effect of dualistic work passion ( harmonious, obsessive) and work-to-life interface ( conflict, enrichment ) between leadership behavior (t ransformational, abusive ) and subordinates’ life satisfaction. The moderating effect of psychological detachment was also explored. Design/methodology/approach Data were collected from 292 full-time white-collar workers from the adult Indian population using an online survey. SEM using SPSS 20.0 and AMOS 22.0 was conducted for empirical analysis. Findings Harmonious work passion and work-to-life enrichment positively mediated between transformational leadership and life satisfaction, and psychological detachment moderated the relationship between harmonious work passion and work-to-life interface. The mediating role of obsessive work passion and work-to-life conflict between abusive supervision and life satisfaction was not observed, and neither was the moderating role of psychological detachment established. Practical implications From the managerial perspective, organizations need to be sensitive to the needs of the diverse workforce they have. Especially in the post-COVID-19 scenario, people are more aware and focused on balancing their work and life domains. Thus, interactive policies and practices are the need of the hour rather than the prevalent blanket one. Originality/value This study explores the effect of leadership on subordinates’ life satisfaction, which has not been explored through the pathway of work passion and work-to-family interface. It thus contributes to leadership, work passion and work–life interface research.