From Hassles to Well‐Being: Unravelling the Mediating Role of Daily Affect

ABSTRACT This 5‐day diary study examined the impact of daily hassles on well‐being, with a focus on the mediating role of positive and negative affect. Previous research has extensively explored the effects of major life events on well‐being, yet the influence of minor daily stressors remains poorly understood. We employed a daily diary methodology with 218 participants, aged 18 to 56, who reported their daily hassles, affect and well‐being over five consecutive days. Results revealed that daily hassles significantly predicted both current and prospective well‐being, mediated by changes in affect. Specifically, at the within‐person level, negative affect increased and positive affect decreased in response to daily hassles, both contributing to reduced well‐being. At the between‐person level, only negative affect mediated this relationship. Our findings underscore the cumulative impact of minor daily stressors on well‐being, highlighting the importance of affective responses in this process. This study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of how everyday stressors influence well‐being, emphasizing the need for strategies to manage daily hassles and enhance emotional resilience.