Trapped by To-Do Lists: Finding Freedom from Toxic Productivity
My Confession: Productivity Became My Prison
I get it. We all crave that sense of accomplishment — the thrill of crossing things off our lists. For years, I thrived on that feeling, building my initiative from the ground up. But somewhere along the way, my drive morphed into something dark, something I now recognize as toxic productivity. The constant push to do more, be more, left me exhausted, anxious, and disconnected from the joy of life.
Sound familiar? Ask yourself these questions:
Do your goals feel impossible to reach, leaving you perpetually disappointed?
Does relaxing trigger a wave of guilt, like you’re wasting precious time?
Even after a big win, do you feel an emptiness, immediately focusing on the next hurdle?
I’ve been there. That relentless chase was a trap, and I had to fight my way out. Let me share what I’ve learned about finding balance, and why it’s so crucial for anyone struggling with this same obsession.
Breaking the Chains: My Journey
Self-Worth Beyond Work: This was the hardest lesson. My identity was fused with my achievements. I had to rediscover passions, hobbies, and relationships that had nothing to do with my business to create separation.
Boundaries are Sacred: In this “always-on” world, we must carve out our own protected time for rest and loved ones. I’ve made my non-negotiables clear to my team and to myself.
The Power of “No”: Saying “no” felt counterintuitive at first. Now, it’s how I protect my energy and focus on what truly matters.
Self-Care as Fuel: I used to see it as selfish. Now I recognize it as the only way to work smarter in the long run. Find what recharges you — for me, it’s time in nature.
Embracing the Pause: Our brains NEED downtime. I’ve learned the true value of doing absolutely nothing.
Questions for Reflection:
What brings me joy independent of my work?
Where can I be bolder in setting boundaries for my wellbeing?
Are there commitments I can confidently say “no” to?
This is personal. I founded my initiative to make a difference, and embracing a healthier approach to work actually helps me achieve my mission.