What can I do at work to help someone when their energy and focus change a lot from place to place?

Short answer

Different settings create different noise, pace, expectations and recovery demands.

What this can look like

The same person may work well from home and struggle in a noisy office, or the reverse, because the demands are different.

Why it can happen

Compare when and where work is easier or harder, then change one condition where possible. The easier setting does not mean the harder one is a choice.

What might help

Compare task conditions rather than treating one setting as proof of effort. Trial a practical change where the role permits.

What the research helps explain

A broad work pattern can be shaped by task demands, health, stress, recovery, environment and support. Public information can help leaders improve conditions and have better conversations; it cannot decide what label, if any, applies to a staff member.

What can vary

Do not diagnose, compare suffering, demand private information or assume that visible output tells you the full cost. New, severe or concerning changes may need appropriate professional advice.

For this situation

For you, consider meeting load, open-plan noise, remote options, focus time and role clarity.

More info and original sources

Poko summarises the relevance of public original sources and links out for anyone who wants to read more.

• About psychosocial hazards — Australian guidance on identifying and managing work conditions that can create psychosocial harm.
• Executive Functions — Explains attention, working memory and flexibility as distinct, context-sensitive processes.