<p>Taking charge is widely recognized as a pivotal aspect of the business landscape. Yet, there has been scant focus on its connection to decent work. Grounded in the Psychology of Working Theory (PWT), this research sought to explore the influence of decent work on taking charge among Chinese employees through two distinct studies. Study 1 embarked on an exploration of the relationship between decent work, prosocial motivation, and taking charge via a cross-sectional study design. Employing a sample of 301 working individuals, our findings illuminated a positive correlation between decent work and both prosocial motivation and taking charge. Progressing from these insights, Study 2 delved into examining the underlying mechanisms and boundary conditions governing the decent work-taking charge dynamic. By gathering data from a fresh sample of 405 employees across three separate time points, we found that decent work was associated with taking charge directly and indirectly through prosocial motivation. Moreover, proactive personality moderated the relation between decent work and taking charge, such that this relation was stronger for more proactive employees. This investigation bridges a novel connection between the outcome facet of PWT and taking charge, thereby contributing to the scholarly calls on how decent work shapes employee behaviors. We conclude by outlining practical implications for career counselors and corporate leaders aiming to cultivate a culture of initiative within their organizations. Limitations and potential avenues for future research are also discussed.</p>