State Temporal Focus in the Workplace

I propose a theoretical model which specifies how state temporal focus, the time period in which the object of an individual’s thoughts exists at a given moment, influences individuals’ work behaviors. Drawing on the mechanisms of self- focus, task focus, and negative affect, I outline how state temporal focus can influence motivation, identity enactment, creativity, decision-making, learning, and sensemaking. In sum, I illuminate why and how state temporal focus shapes the way employees think, feel, and behave.