It’s no understatement—America is undergoing profound change. While much attention sways to technology and automation, a more fundamental shift is underway: the fabric of American society itself. The nation is more diverse than ever, and by 2030, those 65 and older will outnumber Americans under 18, accounting for 57% of the labor force growth. As the workforce evolves, so too must the workplace and the future of work. Despite political and cultural divides, one surprising truth remains: Americans overwhelmingly share the same top two concerns—health and financial security.
A recent BBG Ventures survey of 2,000 Americans across gender, race, age, income, and geography revealed that these priorities transcend demographics. Personal identity may be complex and ever-changing, but well-being and financial stability reign supreme when it comes to what truly matters. For CEOs, these aren’t just societal trends. They are a direct reflection of what’s happening inside the workplace. Employees don’t leave their concerns at the door—health and financial stress are shaping engagement, productivity, and retention rates, amongst other metrics. The future of work isn’t just about AI or remote models; it’s about meeting the fundamental needs that drive performance.
The Future Of Work: Health
Well-being has transitioned from a “nice-to-have” to a non-negotiable for employees. Yet, more than half believe their leaders and organizations are failing them in this area. The survey confirms what many leaders have observed: mental health is the number one concern, followed closely by sleep. Financial stress, loneliness, and workplace burnout are pushing well-being to the brink. Without intervention, CEOs will see productivity, engagement, retention, and innovation declines. However, many corporate wellness programs are archaic or ineffective despite some taking action. Leaders must shift from a reactive benefits model to a proactive, culture-driven approach that:
- Starts at the top, where CEOs model optimal well-being behaviors.
- Goes beyond typical perks such as gym stipends and meditation apps.
- Leverages personalized, data-driven well-being strategies that address real challenges.
- Focuses on prevention, not just treatment instead of waiting for burnout or health crises to arrive.
The Future Of Work: Financial Well-Being
Financial insecurity is just as destabilizing as health concerns. The study found that:
- Fifty-four percent of Americans lack confidence in their financial literacy.
- Sixty-four percent feel uncertain or neutral at best about their financial position.
- The top goal is paying bills consistently and saving for emergencies.
Financial insecurity isn’t just a personal economic issue—it’s a business issue. A financially stressed workforce is a disengaged workforce. Employees burdened by money worries are more likely to underperform due to stress and distraction, continually seek higher-paying jobs that increase turnover, and struggle with long-term financial planning, impacting their career stability.
While no single policy can erase financial stress, forward-thinking CEOs and organizational leaders can take meaningful action through financial literacy, resources, and coaching that equips employees with better budgeting, investing, and debt management tools. Also, adapting to various workforce shifts due to freelancing and career pivots being on the rise, businesses must rethink retention strategies and skills development.
The Future Of Work And America’s Concerns: A Mirror For CEOs
Beneath the noise of media narratives and social media debates, Americans are more aligned than divided. In the office or home, well-being and financial security drive decision-making, engagement, and loyalty. For CEOs, the future of work isn’t just about technology or new business models. It’s about ensuring the basic human fundamentals—health and financial stability—are prioritized and addressed with the same rigor as revenue growth and innovation. As a leader, ask yourself: Is your organization treating well-being and financial security as core business strategies—or just afterthoughts? The answer may define your company’s future.