Toxic productivity and being a workaholic go hand in hand. In a nutshell, toxic productivity is when someone is consistently driven to be productive all the time, extending beyond work into personal life as well. A typical mentality which subscribes to toxic productivity is that each action undertaken needs to have an objective, leading to success or otherwise. This can take people to extremes which are not healthy, sacrificing many of the joys of life simply because of their obsession with productivity.
Identifying that you are engaging in toxic productivity habits can be difficult. The reason for this is because we are constantly encouraged to be more productive on both a professional and personal level. People also tend to be rewarded for productivity, so it is difficult to associate it with negative habits. Noticing toxic productivity is difficult because a lot of people engage in it, so it is normalised. To a certain point, toxic productivity is also expected at times. Irrespective of societal expectations, the repercussions of this type of productivity can be highly detrimental.
Toxic productivity as an addiction
Another challenge is the fact that this type of productivity can become addictive. This is because of the sense of pleasure and achievement whenever you complete tasks successfully. This pleasure factor is spurred by dopamine, leading to higher levels of adrenaline. Over time, your body can become dependent on dopamine and adrenaline, hence you will engage in even more excessive work.
Impact on health
When you are consumed with too much work simply to feel that you are being productive all the time, this will lead to a lack of energy. Whilst you may find that in the short-term you can achieve splendid results, the mental and physical burnout will be felt in the longer stretch of time. The stress caused when you are addicted to productivity can increase your probability of chronic disease and other ailments.
Downtime becomes an issue
Another indicator that you are going through phases of toxic productivity is the fact that relaxation and hobbies cause you anxiety. People who are extremely focused on productivity can find themselves unable to take a well-deserved break out of fear that they are missing out on work related items.
Each activity needs to have a valid reason and objective
Dealing with toxic productivity means that an activity is not undertaken unless there is a purpose for it. One example would be not engaging in anything including hobbies, unless it renders some form of financial benefit.
Over the long-term, toxic productivity will have negative implications which will be showcased even through one’s appearance. Do you feel like a victim of toxic productivity? How do you handle it? Let us know in the comments section below.
