Productivity—Buzzwords, Myths and Traps

Productivity—it’s the buzzword of modern life. Everyone’s chasing it, everyone wants to master it, but along the way, we’ve picked up some false beliefs about what productivity actually means. These myths can lead to burnout, frustration, and, ironically, less productivity.

In this blog post, I’m breaking down 5 common productivity buzzwords myths and traps and showing you how to rethink them. By the end, you’ll have actionable strategies to work smarter, not harder, and focus on what really matters.

So, grab a coffee, and let’s bust some myths!

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Being Busy Means Being Productive

Let’s kick things off with the first myth—and one of the most common: ‘Being busy means being productive.’

We’ve all heard it, right? Or maybe we’ve even felt it. You have a jam-packed calendar, you’re running from one task to the next, and you think, ‘Wow, I’m really productive today!’ But here’s the harsh truth: busyness is not the same as productivity.

In fact, being busy can sometimes mean the opposite. If your days are filled with constant activity but lack focus, you’re probably just spinning your wheels. The key to productivity isn’t doing more—it’s doing what matters most. Outcomes matter, not activity.

How To Overcome It

So what can you do instead? Here’s a simple tip: At the start of your day, identify your top three priorities—the things that will truly move the needle. Focus on those first before diving into the endless emails or minor tasks. Remember: Progress isn’t about volume. It’s about value.

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Multitasking is Efficient

Alright, let’s talk about our second myth: ‘Multitasking is efficient.’

How many times have you tried to answer emails while sitting on a Zoom call, only to realize later that you missed half of what was said? The reality is that multitasking isn’t just inefficient—it’s actually harmful to your productivity. Your brain isn’t wired to focus on two things at once.

What happens when you multitask is that your attention keeps switching back and forth. Each time you switch, you lose focus, and it takes longer to get back on track. In fact, studies show that multitasking can reduce productivity by as much as 40%.

How To Overcome It

So what’s the alternative? Try single-tasking. Block out time for deep work, where you focus on just one task at a time. And if you’re in a meeting, be fully present. You’ll be amazed at how much more you get done when you’re not constantly dividing your attention.

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You Have to Work Harder to Achieve More

This one is especially common among high achievers: ‘You have to work harder to achieve more.’

Now, don’t get me wrong—hard work is important. But there’s a limit. Working harder and longer hours without taking breaks isn’t just unsustainable—it’s counterproductive. At a certain point, your energy and creativity start to decline, and the quality of your work suffers.

How To Overcome It

Instead of working harder, focus on working smarter. Here’s a strategy that’s helped me: Use the Pomodoro Technique. Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. These breaks aren’t just for resting—they actually help your brain reset, so you can come back to your work with fresh energy.

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The Best Tools Will Fix Your Productivity Problems

Next up: ‘The best tools will fix your productivity problems.’

We’ve all been there—spending hours researching the perfect task management app or note-taking software, convinced that the ‘right’ tool will finally solve all our problems. But here’s the truth: Tools are only as good as the habits and systems behind them.

If you’re disorganized, adding another app to the mix won’t magically make you productive. What you need first is a system—a way to prioritize, track, and review your work. Once you have that in place, then you can find tools that support it.

How To Overcome It

For example, I personally use Obsidian for note-taking and task tracking because it aligns with how I think and work. But it’s not the tool that makes me productive—it’s the habits I’ve built around it. So, start with the basics: a pen, a notebook, and a clear system for organizing your tasks.

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More Hours = More Results

Finally, let’s tackle the myth that ‘more hours = more results.’

This one’s a classic, isn’t it? The idea that putting in long hours automatically means you’re being productive. But the reality is that working longer doesn’t always mean working better. In fact, studies show that after about 40 hours a week, productivity starts to decline significantly.

How To Overcome It

The key is to focus on managing your energy, not just your time. Think about when you’re most alert and creative during the day, and schedule your most important tasks for those peak hours. And don’t forget to take breaks, eat well, and get enough sleep—because no amount of work can make up for an exhausted mind.”

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Lessons Learned from this Coffee Journey

Breaking free from these productivity myths isn’t just about working smarter; it’s about living intentionally. Productivity isn’t the goal—it’s a tool to help you focus on what truly matters, whether that’s your career, your family, or your personal growth.

So, what have we learned from today’s journey through the myths of productivity?

1. Being busy doesn’t mean you’re being productive. Focus on outcomes, not activities.
2. Multitasking isn’t efficient—single-tasking is the way to go.
3. Working harder isn’t always better. Take breaks and work smarter.
4. Tools can help, but good systems and habits are what really make the difference.
5. More hours don’t equal more results. Prioritize your energy, not just your time.

As we reflect on these myths, I want to challenge you to rethink how you approach productivity in your own life. Which of these myths have you been following? And what changes can you make to work more effectively—not just harder?

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Useful links

• Top Productivity Frameworks
• Human-centered productivity
• Practical Time Management – Personal Productivity Tools
• How to Prioritize: The Six Horizons of Focus from David Allen