Breaking the Cycle: Overcoming the Link Between Productivity and Mental Health

Jamil Berglund -

Introduction:

As someone who embodies the traits of a "learner by doing," a driven entrepreneur, and a compassionate giver, it's no surprise that you often find yourself feeling frustrated when you're not able to be as productive as you'd like to be. But what if the reason you're not as productive as you'd like is because of an underlying issue with your mental health? In this blog post, we're going to explore the link between productivity and mental health, and provide you with actionable steps to break the cycle of feeling sad because you're unproductive, and being unproductive because you're sad.

The Link Between Productivity and Mental Health:

It's no secret that mental health and productivity are intimately linked. When you're feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed, it can be difficult to focus on the task at hand, and this can lead to decreased productivity. In fact, research has shown that mental health disorders are associated with reduced productivity, with estimates suggesting that the global cost of depression and anxiety alone is $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.

But the link between mental health and productivity goes both ways. When you're not as productive as you'd like to be, it can lead to feelings of frustration, which can in turn exacerbate mental health issues. This can create a vicious cycle that's difficult to break out of.

Breaking the Cycle:

The good news is that there are steps you can take to break the cycle of feeling sad because you're unproductive and being unproductive because you're sad. Here are a few tips to get you started:

  1. Prioritize self-care: It's important to prioritize your mental health and wellbeing, even if it means taking a break from work or other responsibilities. This might mean taking a day off to go for a walk in nature, getting a massage, or simply taking a nap.
  2. Set achievable goals: Setting achievable goals can help you build momentum and regain a sense of accomplishment. Start with small, achievable goals and work your way up.
  3. Use positive affirmations: Using positive affirmations can help reframe negative self-talk and boost your confidence. Repeat affirmations such as "I am capable," "I am enough," and "I am worthy" to yourself on a daily basis.
  4. Seek support: Don't be afraid to seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. Talking about your struggles can help you gain perspective and develop coping strategies.
  5. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help you stay focused and calm, even in the midst of stress and anxiety.

Conclusion:

As someone who embodies the traits of a driven entrepreneur and compassionate giver, it's important to remember that your mental health is just as important as your productivity. By prioritizing self-care, setting achievable goals, using positive affirmations, seeking support, and practicing mindfulness, you can break the cycle of feeling sad because you're unproductive and being unproductive because you're sad. Remember, productivity is not a measure of your worth, and taking care of your mental health is the key to long-term success and happiness.

Reference: Evans-Lacko, S., Knapp, M., & Thornicroft, G. (2010). The mental health consequences of the recession: economic hardship and employment of people with mental health problems in 27 European countries. PLoS One, 5(12), e11779. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone