Why is hard work being demonised?

The topic of toxic productivity and the constant hustle is something that regularly comes up in my information diet and in conversations with those close to me, particularly my big brother who has always been a disciple of the work hard/ play hard squad.

The idea of productivity has its origins in the industrial revolution where the physical output of each individual could be easily measured on the assembly line. But we’re not in an industrial revolution, our economy is knowledge based and our work is more creative and strategic with less easily measured outputs. Many companies and global economies continue to judge productivity using the traditional industrial framework, but this doesn’t fit. Creative and strategic thinking needs mental space with downtime being integral to allow the mind to wander; see the big picture, process social interactions and influence our moral compass.

Productivity hacks and apps are hugely popular, so much so it has almost become an endurance sport for some, but how healthy is this?

Steven Bartlett asks almost every one of his guests on his podcast, Diary of a CEO, “Is there anything wrong with hard work?”. Almost across the board the answer is “No, but…..”

So… is there anything wrong with hard work?

I’m from a hardworking family, I’m certainly not scared of putting in effort and am always willing to help in a crisis. That being said, for me, there are 3 key caveats to this.

My efforts need to be intentional

My good friend told me the phrase “Efficiency is how fast you climb the ladder, effectiveness is making sure the ladder is leaning against the right wall.” This helps me to ensure that the hard work I am putting in is taking me in the right direction, pushing me towards my goals. The alternative is wasted effort, and that leads to frustration, resentment and shame. Make sure, ideally before starting any work, that it is in line with your development and your values.

This idea of the intentional ladder also gives me a lift when I have a “slow productivity” day. It reminds me that even if all I did today was post on social media or read a book if these actions link back to my goals I can see that progress is still being made. Even slow progress is progress.

My emotional health takes priority

I suffered with mental health struggles for several years, I know that much of my problems are linked to the pressure I put on myself, external comparison and that one of my coping mechanisms is to keep busy and carry on… pretending everything is “fine”.

After doing lots of work on myself and having this awareness I know that working on my emotional and mental health is key for my ability to be productive. If I am not mentally strong I cannot produce, so my emotional health will always take priority over any productive task.

My worth is not tied up in the hustle

In the scarcity culture we live in, where nothing is ever enough, it is very easy for our sense of worth to be tied up in our productivity. We don’t feel enough so we produce more, we don’t feel worthy so we work harder. In this “not enough” society the over arching goals are to perform and to prove, generally to other people, and where we are often rewarded for this with recognition and awards in the workplace for “going the extra mile” or “most hardworking”.

This can pull our attention away from what is truly important to us. Understanding what is most valuable to us and the person we choose to be helps us to seek our sense of worth internally. Thus, while I can celebrate an intentional job well done, my worthiness is not reduced if my productivity is lower.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on toxic positivity and the hustle culture, how do these resonate with you? Are your efforts linked to your goals? Do you feel that your sense of worth is increased when you are more productive?

Leave a comment below or get in touch with me privately if you’d prefer.