Treating Productivity Like a Marathon

I’ve listened, watched, and read about the productivity space for at least two years. From quick tactics to strategies, I tried it all. Deep work became the gold everyone looked for in their calendars and productivity systems like building a second brain were common phrases. But to understand something, you can’t start with the specifics. You have to understand the mindset.

Productivity isn’t what most people think it is. After years of seeking out the best practices, I realized it’s not a competition on who can finish more tasks. Rather, productivity is about intentionality.

For example, I usually do my work in the afternoon. I went on a run, and instead of my usual pace, I felt like I was flying. So I went with it. I let my legs take me faster and faster. They covered pavement that I haven’t touched before. When I came home, I was exhausted. I planned a list of things to do, but I just couldn’t. The checkboxes stared at me, and I blinked back at them. So I crumpled up the paper and picked up a book.

The purpose of productivity is to be in control of your time. You don’t always have to sprint towards the next goal. Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is take a nap or make a cup of tea.

Life is a marathon, and sometimes you sprint. But to last, you can’t run full speed all the time. It’s okay to walk.