Do you feel like you know everything about productivity?
For example, that if you’re driven, you put the hours in, you push yourself further – you’ll get to the end of that seemingly endless to-do list.
After all, there’s nothing between you and a clean sheet of paper but hard work.
And hey, you read this kind of blog. You’re on top of the latest research. Aren’t you?
Not Everything You Believe About Productivity May Be True
I love productivity. In fact, this website has become an interesting mix of self-care and self-kindness mingled with productivity. How to get things done without destroying yourself in the process. How to work in efficient ways, and still have time to play.
As a psychologist, I try and keep up to date with the latest research, and sometimes I assume that everyone around me also does. But in fact, the gap between what most people think they know about productivity and what actually works? It’s vast. So when I was sent the below infographic on productivity, I thought it would be a fun thing to share.
Especially because it includes some simple steps that everyone can take to combat these myths and stay productive.
What’s your take? Is this all common knowledge to you, or were there any surprises?
I’ll admit that while I know number 4, it’s something I never manage to do. So that’s my action for this week.
Which action will you take?
(I’m off for a coffee break right now!)
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I’ve recently come to accept that the usual productivity beliefs don’t work for me…and probably never did. And I’ve put into practice some of your reality tips Ellen…so I’m a believer! :-)
Thanks Elle – I do think that our own personality also influences what works for us. So it’s worth everyone being reminded of that, and to try out different things. But there’s some good solid evidence behind these, so they’re worth experimenting with :-)
Hi Ellen,
I am aware of quite a few of these since I often write about stress, but it’s so helpful to have the reminder to put them into practice. #7 is especially true for me. I don’t enjoy working under pressure at all, even though it was a big part of my “past” life. Thanks for this valuable information.
I know what you mean Sandra – I know these intellectually, but I don’t always do them! Always helpful to have these gentle nudges <3
Ellen,
Thank you for sharing such useful information. It was reassuring to me to read most of it as it coincides with my practices. I could do better on the advice to do the challenging work fist.
Thanks Debbie, and it’s great you’re already on top of most of it. But yes, I know what you mean – sometimes it seems easier to get the little things done first, but they stretch on…and ops, no time to do the hard stuff! I probably should get down to writing right now!
Love the graphic and totally relate to what you are saying especially about No 4, what am I doing now- busy work! Back to my first 3 on my daily love list xxoo
Yes – this is definitely a challenge! Good luck with doing less busy work :-) (and me too!)
I appreciate seeing this tips, Ellen. Many of the realities do work well for, however #7 is one I could work on. I can be a procrastinator, so the infographic is a good reminder that this is not so helpful.
Thank you!
Thanks Cathy, breaking things into smaller tasks rather than putting yourself under pressure is definitely something that helps me do better quality work. Though as you say, remembering that while I’m putting it off can be an issue…!
Hi, This is really awesome, having an infographic chart to show myths and reality sure made it more informative and thought provoking, sometimes we do multi tasking that leaves us totally tired and less productive. Thanks for sharing a great post.
Thanks so much for the feedback Sherill, I really appreciate it!