Toxic productivity and how to avoid it
What is toxic productivity ?
One of the main causes of toxic productivity is societal pressure, the fear of failure, and personal ambition. The glorification of constant hustle and the non-stop pursuit of goals often lead to toxic productivity.
Being productive is generally a great trait to maintain but it can become unhealthy when you want to be productive at all times at the expense of other aspects of your life like your physical, mental health and relationships.
You feel like all your actions have to be a step toward a big goal and end up being obsessed with productivity.
But let me tell you something: If you keep pushing yourself too hard without taking a break your body will take one for you.
Consequences of toxic productivity
When focusing only of work you neglect other areas of your life and in the long run it can have lots of consequences on your:
Physical health problems: Chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, headaches and other physical symptoms like weakened immune system, digestive disorders etc
Mental health problems: Stress, depression, burnout and anxiety. All of these mental health problems can lead to low self-esteem, feeling of cynicism
Emotional/ Relationships problems: sacrificing time with your loved ones, loneliness, feeling of isolation
5 signs of toxic productivity
It’s crucial to recognize these signs for preventing the consequences of toxic productivity that can be difficult to heal.
- Feeling guilty every time you take a break or feeling anxious when you are not actively being productive on work or tasks.
- Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations. When you can’t accept anything less than flawless outcomes, which can lead to a feeling of extreme dissatisfaction and self-criticism
- Neglecting personal needs and personal relationships. Toxic productivity often leads to neglecting things such as nutrition, sleep, self-care, social activities in favor of work.
- Ignoring your body’s alerts such as headaches, chronic fatigue, irritability. These symptoms can be a signal from your own body telling you that you need a break.
- Inability to disconnect from work. If you find it challenging to stop constantly check emails, respond to work-related message during your personal time or feel like you have to work during vacation, you may be trapped in toxic productivity
Tips to avoid toxic productivity
Don’t worry, there are some ways to avoid toxic productivity to find a healthy balance between work and personal life.
Set work boundaries
To maintain a well balanced life it’s important to establish clear boundaries and learn to say “No” when necessary.
Use time management techniques and take regular breaks
Find an effective time management method that works for you so you can learn how to prioritize your tasks and taking regular breaks will help ensure you manage your time and energy properly.
If you need help to find a time management method, you can read these two posts:
Schedule time for self care
Prioritizing self-care is essential to achieve balance. It’s important to make sure to schedule self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, practicing a hobby etc.
Do nothing
Yes! you read it right, do nothing. You don’t have to always do something being bored and not doing anything is a good way to let your body and mind relax
Seek support
Finding balance between personal life and professional life is not always easy. If you are struggling too much don’t hesitate to seek support from your friends, family or therapist.
You don’t have to stay alone in these challenges
Always listen to your body and mind. It’s okay to not be productive everyday, it doesn’t mean you will fail at reaching your goals.
