The 85-15 Rule: A Smarter Approach to Sustainable Performance and Wellbeing

In the evolving landscape of work, where hybrid models, digital connectivity, and increasing demands blur the lines between personal and professional life, the traditional mantra of “giving 100%” is being re-evaluated.

For HR professionals tasked with fostering high-performing, healthy workplaces, a new paradigm is gaining traction: the 85-15 rule.

Rethinking Peak Performance

The 85-15 rule proposes that individuals should operate at approximately 85% of their capacity, reserving the remaining 15% for recovery, adaptability, and personal wellbeing.

Far from promoting laziness or underperformance, this approach is rooted in the science of optimization and sustainability.

The concept draws inspiration from elite athletes like Olympian Carl Lewis, who trained and competed with the philosophy of not exhausting himself completely. His coach believed that holding back slightly allowed for better pacing, form, and endurance—principles that translated into nine Olympic gold medals.

Similarly, actor Hugh Jackman has cited this rule as a key to maintaining longevity and excellence in his career.

The Science Behind the Strategy

Research supports this approach. A 2019 study found that learning and performance peaked when individuals operated at about 85% difficulty. This “zone of proximal difficulty” aligns with long-standing psychological theories that suggest optimal growth occurs when tasks are challenging but not overwhelming.

This balance is not just about avoiding burnout—it’s about creating the conditions for continuous improvement.

When employees are pushed to their absolute limits, the risk of errors, disengagement, and mental fatigue increases. Operating at 85% allows room for reflection, creativity, and resilience.

Implications for the Workplace

For HR leaders, the 85-15 rule offers a compelling framework for shaping workplace culture and expectations. Encouraging employees to maintain a sustainable pace can lead to:

• Reduced burnout: With over 40% of workers in the US and UK reporting burnout, it’s clear that the “always-on” culture is taking a toll. The 85-15 rule helps normalize the idea that it’s okay—not just acceptable, but wise—to preserve energy.
• Improved consistency: Employees working at a sustainable pace are more likely to produce consistently high-quality work, rather than peaking and crashing.
• Enhanced wellbeing: By keeping some energy in reserve, employees are better equipped to manage responsibilities outside of work, from caregiving to personal development.
• Greater retention: A workplace that values balance and mental health is more likely to retain top talent in a competitive market.

From Theory to Practice

Implementing the 85-15 rule doesn’t mean lowering standards—it means redefining them.

HR professionals can lead this shift by:

• Promoting realistic workloads and discouraging overwork as a badge of honor.
• Encouraging regular breaks, time away from screens, and flexible scheduling.
• Training managers to recognize signs of burnout and support sustainable performance.
• Fostering a culture where rest and recovery are seen as integral to success, not obstacles to it.

A Strategic Shift for the Future of Work

As the nature of work continues to evolve, so too must our understanding of what drives performance. The 85-15 rule offers a forward-thinking, evidence-based approach that aligns with the needs of modern employees and the goals of progressive organizations.

For HR professionals, embracing this mindset is not just about protecting employee wellbeing—it’s about unlocking long-term productivity, creativity, and engagement.

In a world that often demands more, the smartest move might just be doing a little bit less—on purpose

If you would like to discuss how we can help coach the 85:15 rule in your workplace, please get in touch with us at: hello@OrgShakers.com.