For many workers, 2025 was defined by strict return-to-office mandates, widespread layoffs, and grueling job searches. It’s no surprise, then, that Glassdoor identified one word to capture the workforce’s mood this year: “fatigue.”
“This year, workers spent a lot of time on edge — worried about the next headline, technology shift, or economic surprise,” Glassdoor said in a Dec. 10 blog post. “Politics dominated, layoff fears lingered, economic concerns mounted, and AI disruption accelerated. The result? A workforce running on empty.”
Glassdoor analyzed mentions of “fatigue” in its Community from Jan. 1 to Nov. 18, 2025, compared with all of 2024, and found a 41% increase.
“Workers don’t feel like this job market is working for them,” said Daniel Zhao, Glassdoor’s chief economist. “Sluggish hiring, limited career growth, and stagnant pay are leaving workers increasingly frustrated.”
What’s driving worker fatigue?
Politics played a role, with mentions of “inauguration” jumping 875% year-over-year. Economic uncertainty and stagflation also contributed, as fears of recession and wage growth lagging behind inflation became more pronounced — mentions of “stagflation” tripled from 2024.
AI disruption added to the strain: mentions of “agentic” soared 2,244% year-over-year. Workers also faced burnout from relentless job searches and anxiety over layoffs.
Zhao notes that lingering stress from the pandemic has compounded the problem. “We’ve had five years of a roller coaster, starting with the pandemic, and it hasn’t really stopped. It’s no surprise that workers are drained,” he said.
Trends like “job hugging” suggest that many employees, though unhappy or disengaged, are staying in their roles because of a tight job market.
“There’s a disconnect between employees and leaders right now, especially around AI policies, return-to-office mandates, and efficiency drives,” Zhao said. “It’s ironic: employers push for productivity but often overlook workforce engagement. If workers feel their effort won’t be rewarded, they won’t be as productive.”
Coping with fatigue
For job seekers, Zhao recommends building a support network, pacing yourself, and taking breaks when needed. Workers feeling overextended can focus on tasks that contribute to growth and consider side projects or gigs to develop skills and prepare for future opportunities.
For burnout specifically, experts suggest creating distance from stressors, setting boundaries, and reevaluating priorities. “Finding what motivates you is crucial for resetting expectations and managing burnout,” Zhao said.