Abstract

This study examines how digital technology–induced overload impairs innovation performance by eroding employees’ self-focused efficacy. Drawing on technology-stress and coping theories, we argue that the pervasive “always-on” digital environment compels employees to shoulder excessive workloads and rapidly master new tools, thereby draining the cognitive resources essential for creative thought. Specifically, technology overload diminishes self-focused efficacy—the confidence in one’s ability to manage work demands—which, in turn, undermines innovative output. Moreover, we investigate IT mindfulness—defined as a heightened awareness of and intentional engagement with digital tools—as a buffering mechanism that enables employees to deploy adaptive coping strategies under high digital pressure. A multi-wave survey of 367 knowledge workers in technology-intensive industries supports our proposed model. Structural equation modelling and hierarchical regression analyses indicate that technology overload directly reduces innovation performance, that this effect is mediated by self-focused efficacy, and that IT mindfulness attenuates the negative impact of overload. These findings advance our understanding of the unintended consequences of digital transformation and provide actionable guidance for creating work environments that promote both employee well-being and innovation.

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