Effect of Ergophobia on the Performance of Pakistani Pink-Collar Workers

Background:The objective was to find out how Pakistani pinkcollar workers' performance is affected by ergophobia, with a particular emphasis on the mediating function of work-life balance (WLB).This study investigated how anxiety and dread at work affect women in service-oriented professions' personal balance and professional effectiveness. Methods:Purposive sampling was used to gather data from 384 female employees in Pakistan's tertiary industries using a crosssectional approach.Smart PLS was used to analyse the data, and structural equation modelling was used to test hypotheses and evaluate validity and reliability. Results:The results showed that ergophobia has a substantial and detrimental impact on WLB and performance.Furthermore, it was shown that WLB improved performance and acted as a mediator in the association between ergophobia and performance.This implies that anxiety at work disrupts the balance between personal and professional life, which in turn impairs job outcomes. Conclusion:It was shown that reducing workplace anxiety is essential to raising pink-collar workers' job performance and general well-being.The study emphasizes the need for mental health programs and supporting organizational procedures that foster psychological safety, adaptability, and equilibrium in Pakistan's changing service workforce.