Leadership in the Age of AI –  6/7

AI is rapidly transforming the way leaders work, make decisions, and create value. Drawing on insights from nearly 1,800 leaders across 13 countries, our Leadership Report 2026 identifies seven key trends shaping leadership in the age of AI.

This article explores one of those seven trends. Each article can be read on its own – but together, the series offers a broader perspective on what it takes to lead effectively as AI becomes an integrated part of everyday work.

If you want to explore all seven trends in depth, you can download the full report here.

AI has changed a lot – just not how work feels (yet)

Despite massive attention, AI has not yet fundamentally changed how work is experienced for most people.

According to our Leadership Report 2026, the majority report no change in stress levels or work–life balance. Where effects are visible, they are modest and mostly positive: slightly reduced stress and marginally improved balance for a smaller group.

This highlights a central message: AI’s potential still outweighs its perceived impact. For most people, AI is neither a major relief nor a new burden – at least not yet.

If AI is to make a real difference to the quality of working life, it will require more than sporadic use. It will require scale, integration, and clear leadership intent.

👉 Download the full report to learn more about what it takes before AI is truly felt in everyday work.