Try Slow Productivity instead

Hello and Welcome to #006.

As a mom juggling multiple responsibilities, I understand the desire to be productive without burning out. We live in a fast-paced world that often glorifies busyness and constant hustle.

However, I'm here to tell you that there's another way—a path to productivity that embraces slowness and prioritises self-care. I recently came across the term "Slow productivity", coined by Cal Newport as an alternative to the constant feeling of burning out and not feeling that "we are crushing it", and I wanted to discuss it today with you. We'll learn how to set realistic goals and discover four actionable tips to help you find balance, joy, and fulfilment in work and life.

Stop overwhelming ourselves, let's embrace the power of doing less instead.

In our quest for productivity, we often fall into the trap of overwhelming ourselves with an endless to-do list. However, it's important to recognise that productivity is not about doing more, it's about doing the right things.

Give yourself permission to do less and focus on tasks that truly matter. Prioritise your responsibilities, delegate when possible, and learn to say no to non-essential commitments. By doing less, you create space for what truly brings value and joy to your life.

Embrace the Seasonalities of Life, account for sickness and when life just hits you.

Acknowledge that your productivity may fluctuate depending on the season you're in (Hello winter sickness). Whether it's caring for young children, managing a career, or pursuing personal goals, be kind to yourself and adjust your expectations accordingly. Embrace the ebb and flow of life's seasons, allowing yourself to be fully present in each one without feeling guilty for not operating at maximum capacity all the time.

Set Realistic Goals and Manage Time, use the time you have available. Without squeezing too much in, leaving you depleted.

When setting goals, it's essential to be realistic and consider your current circumstances. Define clear, achievable objectives that align with your priorities and values. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks and schedule them realistically within the time you have available. Avoid overloading your schedule and create buffers for unexpected situations. By setting realistic goals and managing your time effectively, you'll experience a sense of accomplishment while avoiding burnout.

Nurture Self-Care and Playtime. Yes, allow yourself to have fun. It actually helps you to be more productive.

Self-care is crucial for maintaining productivity and well-being. Give yourself permission to rest, recharge, and engage in activities you love. Schedule regular playtime for yourself, whether it's pursuing a hobby, spending quality time with loved ones, or simply indulging in moments of relaxation. Remember, self-care is not selfish—it's an investment in your physical, mental, and emotional health.

By embracing the concept of slow productivity, we can find balance and joy in our work and lives. Take the time to do less, honour the seasonalities of life, set realistic goals, and prioritise self-care and play. Remember, it's not about the quantity of tasks you complete, but rather the quality of the moments you create. Embrace slow productivity, and watch as you achieve more while nurturing your well-being. Here's to finding fulfilment in every season of life!