Women working full time in the United States report higher workplace engagement and stronger career ambition than men, yet they are also significantly more likely to experience burnout, according to new data from Gallup.
The findings indicate a growing challenge for employers as organizations focus on leadership pipelines and workforce sustainability. While many women remain highly committed to their work and advancement, sustained burnout could affect long-term retention and leadership development.
Women Lead in Workplace Engagement
34% of women say they are engaged at work, and 28% of men report the same. The gap has remained consistent for several years, even as engagement levels for both groups have fluctuated since 2022.
Researchers found women were more likely than men to report positive workplace experiences across multiple engagement indicators. Women more frequently say they understand what is expected of them at work, feel encouraged in their professional development, and believe their organization’s mission gives their job meaning.
These factors — clarity, development opportunities, and purpose — are closely linked to stronger engagement.
Burnout Remains Higher for Women
Despite higher engagement, women report burnout at higher rates than men.
About 31% of women say they very often or always feel burned out at work, compared with 23% of men.
The gap appears across many industries and roles. Burnout is particularly pronounced among women with children, where 33% report frequent burnout, compared with 25% of men with children.
Leadership roles show the largest difference. From 2022 through 2025, 29% of women leaders reported burnout on average, compared with 19% of men in similar positions.
Among managers, the gap also persists, with 34% of women and 27% of men reporting burnout.
Ambition Remains Strong
Even with higher burnout levels, women report greater motivation to advance their careers.
Gallup’s data shows 20% of women say they are extremely motivated to pursue career growth, compared with 16% of men.
Ambition is highest among mothers. About 25% of women with children report strong motivation to pursue advancement, the highest level of any group in the workforce.
Researchers say this combination of engagement and career ambition suggests women remain a significant source of future leadership talent.
A Future of Work Challenge for Employers
The coexistence of high engagement and high burnout presents a challenge for organizations focused on building sustainable workforces.
Burnout does not automatically lead to disengagement, but over time it can affect performance, retention, and leadership pipelines if left unaddressed.
Researchers suggest that companies can reduce strain by improving job design, clarifying priorities, and strengthening development support for employees.
As organizations compete for talent and leadership in a changing labor market, the ability to support highly engaged workers without driving burnout may play an important role in shaping the future of work.
