The term “productivity” is much maligned.

Whether work asks us to be “more productive” or we make demands of ourself.

I’d like to take the word back…

Goodness, does this sound lame. Yet another newsletter about the word “productivity”. Sigh.

Unfortunately, I think the term continues to be abused. Further, I think it can still hold a useful, if not, powerful position.

Most see productivity as synonymous with efficiency.

While efficiency certainly has its place, art, and skill, “productivity” should instead mean the art of bringing intention into action.

Better yet:

“Productivity is the art of bringing meaningful intention into action”.

Productivity is about actualization. It’s about bringing ideas from mind into the world.

Meanwhile,…

Some of us have many thoughts, often competing with each other.

Some of us have many desires and worries, often competing with each other.

We can see where productivity in this sense leads directly to an interface with psychology.

By including the word “meaningful” in the definition above, we can introduce a greater depth. Defining:

Meaning is a depth and breadth of connection, both conscious and unconscious.

In this way, when we consider that the things we do in life extends well beyond ourselves, the word “productivity” can now hold an even stronger place.

Returning to our definition:

“Productivity is the art of bringing meaningful intention into action”.

– Kourosh

PS For more, consider one of these articles:

– Why Aiming for Productivity Is Wrong
– A Dog and Productivity
– What is Meaningful Productivity?
– Two Measures of Productivity – The Inbox and the Kitchen Sink