The Pressure of Productivity
It's been a month since my last blog post and while there have been MANY exciting things going on, particularly in politics, it got me thinking about the different pressures we are under, including productivity.
There is a constant need to be productive 24/7, in our professional and personal lives. You have to be working, investing, saving for those houses that my generation is unlikely to afford given the state of the economy. Yes, inflation has officially been reduced to 2% but this is yet to be reflected in the average person's life with sky-high bills and food prices. And in your personal life, you have to be adopting cleaning hacks and trying new recipes and socialising at Instagram aesthetic places in order to keep up a reputation.
I feel the pressure of productivity constantly. And when you set such a bar, falling short only amplifies the feelings of guilt. Productivity is important in order to get things done but taking breaks is just as important.
I think as a society we can become immersed in productivity. I know some will disagree, as Gen Z seems to be leading the way for a work-life balance approach. But what are we expected to do in our spare time, continue productivity? I have this relationship with my phone - when I am outside it is with me of course, but at home it feels refreshing to leave it to a side and spend time with family instead. To not be instantly contactable all the time.
We have grown up with this mindset of constantly being available and willing to work. And this can damage our productivity long-term, even with things we enjoy such as writing and playing sports.
We all feel the pressure of productivity in different areas of our lives. Getting tasks completed is good but not at the extent of your health and attitude.
I think we have to learn to make peace with not every day being productive, or modifying the idea of productivity, because it cannot exist without its opposite. What recharges us will enhance our output. While taking time off can make us feel guilty, it is actually beneficial to providing the best work you can, whether that is professional or personal.
*Photo belongs to the author, all rights reserved
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