LEADERSHIP THAT RESONATES: UNLOCKING INNOVATION VIA WORK-LIFE BALANCE AND WORKPLACE HAPPINESS

Abstract

This study aims to examine how ebullient supervision—a dynamic and emotionally engaging leadership style—can enhance employees’ innovative work behavior, with a particular focus on the mediating roles of work-life balance and happiness at work. Drawing on the Broaden and Build Theory (B&B theory), data were gathered from 382 employees across 25 software houses of Pakistan, representing the IT sector, using purposive sampling. Structural equation modeling reveals that ebullient supervision significantly contributes to fostering both a healthy work-life balance and a positive emotional climate, which in turn promotes greater innovation among employees. Both mediators, work-life balance and happiness at work, partially explain this relationship, with work-life balance emerging as the stronger pathway. This research advances current understanding by introducing a previously underexplored mechanism that links positive supervisory behavior to employee innovation through emotional and well-being dimensions. The findings offer practical insights for organizational leaders aiming to cultivate innovation through supportive and emotionally intelligent leadership practices