Amelia here with your weekly Dóchas blog post. I have been working extensively with my clients around ‘energy’ and daily productivity. Many clients come to therapy saying they lack motivation, are unproductive, and don’t have the energy to complete all the life tasks they’ve set out for themselves.
In summary, my clients see themselves as awful people who will never succeed. Sound familiar?
Watch my video or read on for more details:
The Damaging ‘Productivity’ Narrative
If you’re beating yourself up mentally over the above issues, you’re not alone. The problem here is that Western society tells us that our productivity is what determines our worth. You have to get your chores done, keep up with work, and manage daily life stressors without breaking a sweat. This narrative is incredibly damaging, as the reality is that you are a human BEING, not a human DOING.
Read my past blog about managing your feelings vs. your ‘to-do list’.
Energy First
So here’s where I flip the script. You were not born to complete your to-do list. You were born to live your life in whatever capacity feels meaningful for you, but the first step to really ‘living’ is connecting with your energy. Some days you will be tired. Some days you will have boundless energy. The reality is: your to-do list will never be done (until you die, because you can’t check off your to-do list if you’re dead).
So why are you rushing through life trying to get everything checked off your list, so that you can rest AFTER the list is done? If the list will never be done, then productivity is a marathon, not a sprint. Which means that checking in with your energy levels should come first. I have made a handy flowchart to help with this check-in process.
You can also check out Vlady’s blog that explains how to vary your actions based on that day’s energy level.
Productivity Second
The idea of energy first, and tasks second is radical and many clients push back.
What if I never get my tasks done?
What if I’m seen as lazy?
My question in response is this:
Is this task an emergency?
Do you HAVE to fold the laundry right this second?
Can you accept that the dish washer can wait to be emptied and you can rest first?
Can you be okay with things taking more time and being more flexible with your timeline?
Life is busy enough. You have to carve out time for rest, as the reality is you are your own responsibility. I know a lot of us grew up with a chore chart that had to be completed regardless of your energy, but as an adult, you can rewrite your relationship to tasks.
Now, if you are finding it difficult to get out of bed and participate in daily tasks in a way that interferes with your life, it is worth talking to a doctor and psychologist about your symptoms as they may be related to depression. If the issue is that you are not living up to the unrealistic expectations you are placing on yourself, then it’s time to flip the script to energy first, tasks second.
If you’re unsure where to begin or who to reach out to, we’ve created something that can help. The Dóchas Compass is a short quiz that suggests one or more therapists on our team who might be a good fit for you. Try it now!
If you need some help processing your relationship to your energy and tasks, please reach out to Dóchas at 780-446-0300 or info@dochaspsych.com. Book an in-person (Spruce Grove, Alberta) or virtual appointment with one of our therapists here.
About Dóchas Psychological
Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.
Disclaimer
Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.
