Non-work Factors 

Individual non-work factors
Some factors inherent in the individual can affect their performance at the workplace. They include:

• Personality - the range of personality types among university staff corresponds roughly with the general population. Consequently managers and co-workers are likely to come across people at work (as they do in their life in general) whose personality may appear to be outside the usual norms. A problem that managers sometimes encounter is when the personality of a staff member may not be suited to their job. For example, if someone with a strong need to be creative is employed in a process-type role that does not offer opportunities for creativity. 
• Psychological and psychiatric factors - managers may find it very difficult to effectively manage staff who have psychological or psychiatric problems. These factors can be minor or major and range from transitory to permanent. Expert assistance may be required when these factors affect the manager/staff member relationship. 
• Morale - factors that exist outside of the workplace are sometimes unavoidably carried over to the work environment. A loss or stressful event in their personal life will lower their morale. It usually affects their performance at work also. 
• Stage of life - at certain stages of life people are more prone to experience crises. New born children, rebellious teenagers and dependent, elderly parents can increase non-work stressors. 
• Career - a shortfall between high career expectations and the reality of a job with poor prospects can lead to disappointment and frustration. 

Social non-work factors

• Aspects of a persons non-work environment can also affect their performance at work. 
• Financial - overcommitment to a mortgage or personal loan can lead to money worries which affects both home and work life. 
• Status - social or work status plays an important part in building a person's self esteem. When these fail to meet a person's expectations they may become demoralised. This can be carried over to their work. 
• Family situation - many abrupt changes to family routine can trigger stress at home. Examples include relationship difficulties, bereavement and moving house, etc. If a person is stressed at home they may not be able to leave their problems at home.

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