Nu mår man?

: en kvalitativ studie om tidspress och välmående

Abstract

Previous research shows that many academics experience a high level of workload and time pressure at work, which could lead to a work life conflict. Time pressure and well-being are current topics, which is evidenced in the daily press.  Previous research indicates a knowledge gap regarding research about work life balance, and its effect on the well-being of individuals. Thus, the purpose of this study is to explore how accountants experience time pressure, from a well-being perspective.

In order to fullfil the purpose of the study, a qualitative method was chosen. Time pressure has been explored from three perspectives: time deadline pressure, time budget pressure, and workload. The term well-being includes life satisfaction, job satisfaction, and work life balance. This study is based on empirical material gathered from eight accountants settled in southern Sweden. To increase reliability of the study, empirical data have been collected through a method triangulation consisting of interviews, observations and documentary research.

The result of this study shows that occurrence of time pressure in the accounting profession is dependent on documentation requirements, constant interruptions and the expectations of the client. Despite time pressure and workload, the accountants are pleased with their profession. However, situations occur when time pressure is prevailing, which negatively impacts accountants’ well-being. The extent of time pressure and workload that accountants feel comfortable with depends on personal characteristics.

The findings show that personal characteristics are crucial regarding how the accountant experience time pressure. Depending on personal characteristics, if time pressure is prevailing it instantly leads to an imbalance between work and life, which results in decreased well-being for accountants.