Productivity is often hailed as the ultimate measure of success. We’re bombarded with messages that encourage us to hustle harder, work longer, and strive for constant efficiency – and I for one have often seen posts or articles on maintaining “peak performance”. However, this constant pressure to always be at the top of our game may lead to often overlooking a fundamental truth: productivity isn’t always linear. There are days when we feel unstoppable, accomplishing tasks with ease, and then there are days when even the simplest of tasks feel like climbing a mountain, with 10kg ankle weights.
This phenomenon is perfectly normal and something that many of us experience regularly. Understanding the mind-set behind these variations in productivity can help us navigate them more effectively and, most importantly, grant ourselves the grace to accept them as a natural part of the human experience. The understanding of this is very important, especially if you, like me, constantly face the tormenting “guilt” in your mind of not being on top form all the time.
The Rhythm of Productivity
Our productivity follows in peaks and valleys. Some days, we wake up feeling energised and motivated, ready to tackle our to-do list head-on. These are the days when our cognitive resources are at their peak, allowing us to focus deeply, make decisions efficiently, and execute tasks with precision.
Conversely, there are days when we wake up feeling sluggish, unmotivated, and downright exhausted. Despite our best efforts, our brains seem to be buffering, and even the simplest of tasks feel like a massive process to undertake. These are the days when our cognitive resources are depleted, leaving us susceptible to distractions, procrastination, and a general sense of overwhelm.
There are several factors that contribute to the ebb and flow of our productivity. Our productivity is closely tied to our energy levels. Just like any finite resource, our energy fluctuates throughout the day due to factors such as sleep quality, nutrition, exercise, and stress levels. When our energy reserves are high, we’re more likely to feel alert, focused, and motivated. Conversely, when our energy reserves are depleted, our cognitive functions suffer, making it harder to concentrate and perform tasks effectively.
Mood plays a significant role in shaping our productivity. Positive emotions such as enthusiasm, optimism, and excitement can fuel our motivation and creativity, making us more productive. On the other hand, negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, low self-esteem, and sadness can drain our mental energy and impair our cognitive functioning, leading to decreased productivity.
There are also our natural biological rhythms known as circadian rhythms, which regulate our sleep-wake cycle, hormone production, and other physiological processes. These rhythms influence our energy levels, alertness, and cognitive performance throughout the day, with most people experiencing ups and downs in productivity corresponding to their circadian rhythms.
Instead of viewing productivity fluctuations as a source of frustration or self-criticism, we can learn to embrace them as a natural aspect of being human. There are a few strategies you can work with to manage this.
- Pay attention to your energy levels and mood throughout the day. If you’re feeling tired or unmotivated, it’s okay to take a break, rest, or engage in activities that replenish your energy reserves.
- On days when your productivity is high, tackle your most challenging tasks or projects that require deep focus and concentration. Save simpler tasks or administrative work for days when your energy levels are lower.
- Be kind to yourself on days when your productivity is low. Remember that you’re only human, and it’s okay to have off days. Avoid self-criticism and instead focus on self-care and nurturing activities that help replenish your energy and mood.
- While fluctuations are normal, establishing a consistent daily routine can help stabilise your energy levels and improve overall productivity. Get back to the basics of healthy habits such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and stress management techniques.
- Don’t hesitate to reach out for support from friends, family, or colleagues on days when you’re struggling. Sometimes, a simple conversation or a listening ear can provide the encouragement and perspective needed to overcome productivity challenges.
In a world that glorifies being busy and overworked, it’s essential to remember that productivity isn’t always at its peak. By understanding your own psyche behind these fluctuations and adopting strategies that work for you, you can cultivate a healthier relationship with productivity and embrace this as an inherent part of the human experience. Remember, it’s all part of the journey.