I used to consider myself a productivity guru. I’d spend hours reading books, listening to podcasts, and pondering on how to get more out of less time. Days were spent in a flurry of activity, all in hopes of feeling fulfilled by filling a to-do list with check marks.
Yet this achievement was short lived. More often than not, I’d look back in disappointment due to how ‘little’ I did. Why couldn’t I get that last item on my list done? Even if I got everything done, why couldn’t I finish three more items that were on the list for tomorrow?
With time, I figured it out…I wasn’t going fast enough! With more speed came more stress. The race against the clock only brought more room for error and discontent.
It all sounds absurd when summarized, but I was too lost in the cycle to notice. When society gives us rewards and recognition for a behavior, the last thing we do is question it.
Since this observation, I’ve decided to move slower. I don’t try to cram every minute with action. I allow space between activities. I allow myself room to think, breathe, be present, and peaceful. Things still get done, but it’s not with as much self-inflicted rush as there used to be.
I might get less done as a result, but I’d rather be peaceful than productive.
That description of your past, frantic pace was how my Fridays have been going. And I’ve been calling is sick on that day, as a result, and now I am afraid I might lose my job.
I hope it is not too late, as far as my employer is concerned, for me to change my ways, and keep my job.
Best of luck to you, Barbara! 😊