What stops me from being productive?

It is true that there are a set number of hours, days, weeks, and months within our conventional units for measuring time. Within a day, there are 24 hours; within a week there are 7 days; within a year, there are 12 months of varying lengths. Despite this objective system of measuring time, we often feel there is never enough of it, especially to be as productive as we aim to be. This internal pressure leads some of us to believe we must work constantly, even beyond what time allows, to achieve our goals. What we often ignore is that time has its limits.

Before moving forward, what does it mean to be productive?

The efficiency with which an individual can convert their time and mental effort into meaningful outputs that align with their personal values, goals, and sense of purpose is how most psychologists define Productivity. It boils down to four key points,

·        Efficiency

·        Meaningful output

·        Alignment with values, goals andpurpose

·        Individual perspective

These key points are the biggest barriers to productivity.

Today's rapid pace prizes productivity above all, making it pivotal to professional and personal goals alike. However, it is not easy to maintain. Our productivity can easily falter given anxiety, burnout, fatigue, poor planning, overloaded schedules, or inadequate focus skills. Even driven individuals may struggle to stay productive when external distractions or interruptions break concentration despite our best intentions.

Let us understand what hampers our productivity.

1.     Normalizing hyper-productivity- It's understandable to have days when we struggle with productivity. Reasons may include distraction, multitasking too much, or procrastination. In a society glorifying nonstop output, we can feel abnormal or defective when overwhelmed. However, productivity naturally fluctuates. Berating our selves amplifies negative emotions that paralyzes progress.

Having this understanding and acceptance is of paramount importance in defeating the thoughts of self judgement.

2.     Indecision- Indecision stalls momentum. When we can't decide what to do next, our productivity hits a standstill. This wastes the energy needed for forward progress and leads to second-guessing. This indecision might stem from fear of making the wrong choice. Creating a task outline can prevent indecision.

3.      Multi-tasking– Irrespective of the popular belief, multi-tasking is a productivity killer. Constantly switching between tasks overloads our working memory which sabotages our concentration and retention. Ultimately, multitasking undermines the quality and efficiency of our efforts – reducing productivity. As hard as it might sound, focusing on one task at a time is a proven way to boost productivity.

4.     Micromanagement– It is the rust of productivity. Micromanagement is the biggest demotivator. It not only erodes accountability but also damages our self-efficacy. As a result, self-confidence, growth and productivity all go down.

5.     Perfectionism- Holding excessively high standards around flawless performance and out come can paralyze getting started and finishing a task. Developing realistic standards of functionality is essential in improving productivity.

6.     Fatigue and exhaustion- Insufficient breaks, recovery time and sleep diminish our energy levels, attention spans, motivation and overall capacity to work productively for sustained periods. Taking care of yourself whilst taking care of the task, is possible and necessary.

What to do about it?

Here are some tips for breaking common barriers to productivity,

·        Minimize distractions

·        Use focus timers like Pomodoro technique

·        Take regular quick breaks to recharge mental focus

·        Organized and outline an action's action

·        Embrace imperfections – done is better than perfect.

·        Delegate tasks if micromanaging

·        Celebrate and appreciate small wins

·        Develop growth mindset around challenges

·        It is ok to pause and breathe.

The key is identifying our unique barriers, then intentionally adopting strategies like these to eliminate what's obstructing productivity. Identify what resonates with you most and practice the same. I completely understand that it's easier said than done. If you find yourself struggling, don't hesitate to ask for help. We are here.