The Productivity Myth

Today I will ask you a very simple question. 

Do you think that working for longer hours without breaks makes you more productive? 

I would like to free you of this misconception. Because productivity doesn’t mean working at a stretch for hours without taking a break. It simply means working with your entire focus, giving your best and achieving your  goal. But the society makes us believe that productivity is all about working nonstop. 

Everyday after waking up we make up a to-do list of our own which we rarely complete and then what we do is blame ourselves for being less productive. To be honest, none of us really know what productivity means because the society’s definition of being productive is worlds apart from the original meaning. Let’s delve deeper into the  reality of productivity. 

Productivity actually is a  measure of efficiency that compares the amount of work accomplished with the time, effort, or resources used. True productivity involves strategic single-tasking, focusing on quality and value over quantity, taking regular breaks to sustain focus, prioritizing meaningful goals, and recognizing that productivity is not a numbers game but a combination of strategy, habits, and self-care.  

I believe now you understand how vague the societal definition of productivity is. Now let’s move on to the myths. Here are nine of the top myths about productivity — pieces of common wisdom that it turns out don’t hold up, and may lead you astray.

Myth 1: Copy the habits of highly successful people.

Myth 2: Maximize every moment of your day.

Myth 3: Set big goals.

Myth 4: Optimize your productivity apps and systems.

Myth 5: Use rewards.

Myth 6: Willpower is finite.

Myth 7: Visualize achieving your goal.

Myth 8: Stay busy.

Myth 9: An uncompromising regimen will keep you productive.

But a big part of the problem is that a lot of the advice out there just isn’t helpful — and can often be counter-productive. These myths can work to help us improve ourselves. I will provide you with ways we can use them for our good. 

What we learn from these myths?

Myth 1: Copy the habits of highly successful people. 

Instead get inspired by the people you admire, experiment with their productivity approaches, emulate the ideas that genuinely help you work better — and throw out the rest.

Myth 2: Maximize every moment of your day.

Instead focus your energy on being productive in those fleeting hours of the day when you have the most focus. Figure out when your most productive time of day is.

Myth 3: Set big goals.

Instead start with small, consistent habits. To achieve sustainable productivity habits, it’s best to build up with easily achievable tasks. 

Myth 4: Optimize your productivity apps and systems.

Instead be selective about the apps and systems you choose. Set your priorities offline. Then, use your favorite apps or systems as a way to break down and achieve your priorities. Use just a couple apps and systems, and don’t stress about staying up to date on every new thing.

Myth 5: Use rewards.

Instead focus on cultivating your intrinsic motivation. First, take time to enumerate your top values in life. This will help you set priorities and understand the skills you most want to develop in your work.

Myth 6: Willpower is finite.

Instead build your willpower over time through positive affirmation and habit development.

Myth 7: Visualize achieving your goal.

Instead use your imagination realistically because visualization doesn’t inspire us to jump higher, but rather causes us to become complacent.

Myth 8: Stay busy.

Instead focus on doing only the important things each day. Have a digital blackout every day. Say no to things that do not help you to advance towards your goal. 

Myth 9: An uncompromising regimen will keep you productive.

Instead try positive self-talk.

What you should understand is that there are hormones at play which can boost your productivity. They are mainly: 

• Dopamine: Reward Hormone This hormone is essential for maintaining motivation and focus, making it a key player in workplace productivity.

• Serotonin: Feel-good hormone It is vital for managing stress and enhancing overall work performance.

• Oxytocin: Love hormone 

It plays a role in fostering strong, collaborative relationships among colleagues. A sense of belonging and trust within a team can enhance job satisfaction and productivity.

• Endorphins: Mood regulators

High levels of endorphins can help reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to a more positive and energetic work environment.

Rather than being hard on yourself when you don’t meet your expectations, be more supportive of yourself and understanding of your challenges. Motivating yourself can be one of the greatest  achievements of your entire life.