rethinking (busy) productivity.
Somewhere along the way, we started associating productivity with always being busy, constantly available, and never taking a break.
But let’s be real—most of us don’t do our best work when we’re expected to function like that.
The pressure to prove our worth through how much and how fast we work is overwhelming—and often feels pointless.
But who decided that’s how we should measure success? (Yes, I know—companies did. But maybe it’s time to create our own rules whenever possible.)
What if, instead of rushing and burning ourselves out, we create boundaries to protect our focus and embrace slower, more sustainable growth?
If you’re feeling out of sync with your work, this post is for you—here are a few prompts, inspired by Slow Productivity, to reflect on your pace and purpose:
What high-impact work truly deserves your attention? Rather than getting stuck in a constant flow of to-dos, what long-term goals align with what really matters in your career?
Are you making enough space for deep work? What steps can you take to block distractions and carve out time for tasks that need your full attention?
Are you taking on too much? How can you set better boundaries to protect your energy? How can you make your workload more visible to others to manage expectations and prevent overload?
What pace supports your productivity without leaving you drained? Could restructuring your workweek or adding buffers between more challenging tasks help you stay focused and reduce stress?
How could you redefine success? Instead of measuring speed or output, what if you prioritized quality, purpose, or learning opportunities?
Slowing down doesn’t mean falling behind. It’s about finding the right pace for you—one that supports your growth and your fulfillment.
If this resonates with you and you could use some extra support with all things work, feel free to reach out. I have a few more spots available for coaching.
about the author:
Hi there! I'm Silja, the founder of the wholesome growth club, an inclusive hub for career coaching with a soft spot for introverts and perfectionists. I’m an Amsterdam-based expat, but I love connecting with people worldwide. With a background in recruiting, I know the struggle of crafting a career path that feels truly yours. At the wholesome growth club, we're all about fostering sustainable growth, meaningful engagement, and authentic connections. Our blog is dedicated to making coaching accessible and sharing insights to approach work and life with an extra dose of confidence, slow productivity, and self-compassion. If you are curious to make things happen for yourself, get in touch—we offer personalized coaching journeys that will get you closer to your (dreamy) goals in no time.
