Recently, it felt like I have been pushing, even when not really motivated, and feeling guilty if I am not finishing projects. Then, I saw an
article in HuffPost that many people have toxic productivity, “an unhealthy desire to be productive at all times, at all costs.”*
The surprising thing was how proud I have been all through my life, especially in my career, that I am a hard worker and accomplish a lot. Yet, the weirdness of the pandemic disrupted my flow. While still focusing on projects, I found myself anxious, not able to move forward, and often disappointed with not getting enough completed.
In the article, a business coach offered, "If you want to avoid toxic productivity, what I propose is that you lead your life instead of letting work or overproductivity lead it," Milasas said. "You’ve only got one life. This isn’t a dress rehearsal or a dry run - this is it!"
Try This: Banish the Thought
During the week, any time you have a "woulda, shoulda, or coulda" pop up, simply banish it! Imagine being Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings, yelling to the monster, "You shall not pass!" Here are some things to distract you when feeling pushed to do more:
- Drink a hot cup of coffee or cocoa and put your feet up
- Relax with a good book
- Walk outside in the sunshine
- Binge a new TV show or movie
- Play some Solitaire or word games
Being more balanced in your work and play will make the most of every day.
* What Is Toxic Productivity? Here's How To Spot The Damaging Behavior, https://www.huffpost.com/entry/toxic-productivity-work_l_606655e7c5b6aa24bc60a566.