The Effect of Workplace Spirituality on Generation Z Employees' Holistic Well-Being in Kupang Creative Economy

Abstract

Purpose: This study analyzes the effect of workplace spirituality on the holistic well-being of Generation Z employees in the creative economy sector in Kupang. Methodology: This study employed a quantitative explanatory approach with a cross-sectional survey design conducted in Kupang City, NTT. The measurement instruments included the Workplace Spirituality Scale, Work and Meaning Inventory (WAMI), Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES), WHO-5 Well-Being Index, and Spiritual Well-Being Scale. Data from 76 Generation Z creative economy actors were analyzed using the SEM-PLS. Results: Workplace spirituality exerted a positive and significant direct effect on holistic well-being (β = 0.351, p < 0.001). It also significantly predicted meaningful work (β = 0.439) and work engagement (β = 0.626). Both mediators positively influenced holistic well-being, with work engagement emerging as the dominant mediator (indirect β = 0.212). Conclusions: Workplace spirituality serves as a critical psychological resource that enhances the holistic well-being of Generation Z creative workers. The integration of spiritual values, meaningful work, and engagement supported by local cultural values such as gotong royong is essential for sustainable and humane work environments in Eastern Indonesia. Limitations: The relatively small sample size (n = 76) and cross-sectional design limit causal inferences and generalizability to other regions or sectors. Contributions: This study extends the JD-R framework by integrating workplace spirituality and Indonesian local cultural values into a holistic well-being model applicable to Generation Z in emerging creative economy contexts.