Productivity guilt is the constant feeling of not creating, achieving, or working hard enough. It shows up as a sense of restlessness or shame while trying to relax and often takes away from the joy of downtime.
Where does it come from?
It comes from a variety of factors including a capitalist society’s desirability for productivity & our constant online exposure to creativity. We are conditioned to wear ‘busy’ as a badge of honor & glorify the idea of ‘hustle culture’. As a result, we’re left feeling constantly inadequate, anxious & burned out.
Why it doesn’t work
- Research suggests that working long hours doesn’t result in more output.(Harvard Business Review)
- Comparing our achievements to the progress and achievements of others is not only harmful to our well-being but also counter-productive
- We are human beings that need care & rest before we are creators, employees, students and products of a capitalist culture
How to manage it
- Think of rest as productive
Remember that slowing down to renew, repair and heal is productive. Taking time to fill yourself up again is productive. Giving yourself permission to pause, nurture and play is productive.
- Reach for 70% productivity
The pressure to be 100% productive is linked to anxiety, sleep disorders, irritability and other forms of psychological distress. Strive for 70% productivity over 100%. Reserve the remaining 30% of your energy exclusively for rest and recreation.
- Keep in mind the law of diminishing returns
It states that after a certain point adding more effort will not produce significantly more gains. Recognise when you’ve reached that point.
- Review & preview
Start each day by reviewing the day that’s gone and previewing the day ahead. Celebrate every accomplishment. Prepare for the day to come with compassion & care for yourself. Prioritize tiny wins over big breakthroughs.
- Cancel comparison
Your creativity, work or progress isn’t meant to look like anyone else’s. Nobody in the world has your exact gifts and capabilities. Value your own effort, celebrate your own growth and respect your own unique journey.
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