I've always prided myself on my ability to get things done. There's definitely satisfaction in being able to cross things off my to-do list. Are you the same?
And yet I've come to realize that true productivity is more than that. Look at this month's Success Tip for more about what productivity really means to me.
But before you scroll down to do that, hang with me here for just a minute because I've also come to realize that productivity needs to come with a warning label.
What?!?
Yes, I heard you throw down the challenge and question me on that. Isn't productivity a GOOD thing?
It can be. But when we feel a need to be "productive" at all times and at all costs, productivity can be toxic.
There's actually quite a bit written on the topic of toxic productivity. One good article on it is this one published by Psychology Today: When Doing is Your Undoing: Toxic Productivity.
Here are the key points:
The need to constantly "do" can turn toxic and is often ineffectual and unproductive.
Cultures of toxic productivity exist — in countries, organizations, and within ourselves.
Taking time to reflect and decide on a course of action is better than reacting and "doing" mindlessly.
Of course, productivity doesn't have to become toxic. There's positive productivity, too! So, embrace positive productivity practices like those I share below and be aware so that you can avoid productivity becoming toxic.
Remember to slow down, look up, and enjoy your journey!
SUCCESS TIP OF THE MONTH
True productivity isn't just about crossing off all the tasks on your to-do list. It's about intentionally choosing to do things that advance you towards your goals and closer to success.
We all want to make the most of our precious time, and that doesn't just have to mean crossing off all the tasks on your to-do list. Productivity is about being creative with how we use our time, and focusing on the pursuits that make our hearts sing.
It's about tapping into our energy reserves more effectively, unlocking our fullest potential and finding a renewed sense of purpose in our lives.
So, instead of viewing productivity as something to be achieved through high-intensity bursts of work and then rest, understand that it's really about making sure that whatever you do, it advances you towards your goals and brings you closer to success. True productivity is about recognizing what tasks are important and what tasks can wait until tomorrow. It's about living life at full throttle, knowing that every task you complete is taking you one step closer to success.
By being productive, you are creating a life of fulfillment and success. You're making time for yourself, developing your skills and learning new ones. You're achieving more in less time and feeling satisfied with the results of your hard work.
Therefore, focus on activities that bring joy and success to your life. Ask yourself if you're taking steps towards your goals or simply going through the motions. Spend quality time with family and friends, cultivate a home environment that brings peace and comfort, tend to your physical and emotional health, take risks, and follow your passions.
Living intentionally means being aware of your values and what matters most to you. It's about making conscious decisions about how you spend each day.
I encourage you to choose activities that will move you closer to where you want to be. Choose those tasks that help you live purposefully and have an impact on the world around you. And remember, productive doesn't always equal busy.
