Abstract
In the present research, we use proactivity literature and studies on energy at work to argue that
individuals may proactively manage their vitality (i.e., physical and mental energy) to promote optimal
functioning at work. We develop and validate a scale to measure proactive vitality management (PVM),
and explore the nomological network. We conducted a five-day diary study (N = 133; 521 days), a
survey study (N = 813) and a cross-sectional study measuring daily PVM (N = 246) among working
individuals from various occupational sectors. The results show that PVM can be reliably measured with
eight items that load on one overall factor, both on general and daily level. Furthermore, daily PVM was
moderately but positively related to the use of work-related strategies and micro-breaks. Moreover,
PVM related positively to relevant personal characteristics (i.e., proactive personality and self-insight)
and showed moderate but positive relationships with job crafting and relaxation (convergent validity).
PVM was unrelated to psychological detachment and decreasing hindering demands (discriminant
validity). Finally, PVM was positively related to well-being, in-role work performance, creative work
performance and performance on the Remote Associates Test (criterion validity). We conclude that
employees may promote their own work performance through the use of PVM.