Reframing productivity: The power of language
When you hear the word "productivity," what springs to mind? For many business owners, it conjures an image of juggling emails, meetings, endless tasking and project deadlines, often all at once. It's the constant buzz of activity that fills your days from morning until night. But just because you're busy doesn't mean you're doing your best work. So, let’s unpack what productivity really means and how a few changes in your language can shift your entire approach to work.
How history has shaped productivity
Originally, "productivity" was all about speed on assembly lines—getting things made fast for profit. That was the Industrial age for you, where it was all about output and quotas. Fast forward to today, and it's a whole new ball game. Machines and computers have taken over much of the grunt work, and as a business owner, you're more likely to be deep in creative thought, problem-solving, or strategising. Your work demands creativity, brainpower, and emotional intelligence - qualities that can be hindered by constant rushing and busyness.
Yet, there's a catch: even with all these changes, it's easy to fall back on old habits. You might find yourself measuring your worth by how jam-packed your schedule is. But think about it: Is a filled-to-the-brim calendar really a sign of effective work? It's time to rethink productivity and align it with what truly matters in your business today.
Making space for brain work
Being busy all the time isn't just tiring - it can actively hold you back. Constant busyness often means you're spinning your wheels, not necessarily moving forward. Instead of always pushing for more, what would happen if you focussed on progress, by emphasising quality and mindfulness in your work, making space to recharge and inspire creativity? This mindset shift helps you concentrate on actions that truly align with your business goals, ensuring every task has a purpose. By trimming down on the busywork, you make room for impactful tasks that propel your business forward and make your workday feel rewarding.
The impact of language on your workday
The words you choose shape your experience. Describe your day as "hectic" or "insane," and it feels overwhelming; reframe it as "full" and "active," and suddenly there’s a positive spin to your approach. This isn't just wordplay, it's about setting the tone for how you experience your tasks and your day. Reflecting on how you talk about work can reveal a lot about what you value and how those values impact your efficiency and satisfaction.
Creating your own definition of what productivity means for you
Becoming mindful of the language surrounding productivity can lead you to more meaningful work practices. Start by noticing when you feel most stressed about work. What language are you using? Could a different choice of words help you feel more in control or at peace with your tasks? Changing "I have to finish this" to "I choose to complete this today" can shift a feeling of burden to one of purpose and autonomy.
Really, rethinking productivity isn't about upping your to-do list; it’s taking purposeful and considered action. Tweaking the words you use and practicing mindfulness can ease that pressure to always do more. This way, you're not just ticking off tasks you're genuinely enjoying your achievements. So, when it's time to shut down for the day, you can really relax and dive into life beyond work with total focus.
Need some help to change the language you use around your productivity, see our new 1:1 coaching program - The Productivity Accelerator here.
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