Are you falling for any of these productivity myths? If you are saying yes before you even read, then make sure you get on the Productive Teacher Toolkit waitlist.
There are certain things we’ve been told over and over again about being productive that are flat-out wrong. But when we hear them so many times, we are tricked into believing that they’re true. Keep reading as we debunk these productivity myths.
Productivity Myths #1: All distractions need to be avoided
Distractions are a bad thing, right? So, it’s best if we just avoid them altogether, right?
The short answer: it depends.
There are different types of distractions. Those that are external, like your teacher bestie sharing the latest gossip or those intrusive notifications on your phone. In fact, external distractions are easy to avoid. It’s the internal distractions that are the real problem.
Internal distractions
Internal distractions are much more difficult to avoid. Usually we just chalk it up to an inability to focus, without diving deeper into why we are distracted.
When you find yourself unable to focus, there’s usually a good reason. Your body may be trying to tell you that you need a break. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious and need to release that energy. Maybe you’re going through something big, and need to process your thoughts and feelings first.
Sometimes when we are distracted, there is actually something bigger at play that needs to be addressed in order for us to focus. In that case, it’s okay to tune into your distraction because it won’t be ignored. (And it will save you time and frustration in the long run.)
Productivity Myths #2: Multitasking is wrong
Remember when we were in college and “being a good multitasker” earned you bragging rights? If you’re multitasking, and getting a lot done at once, it seems like it would be a good thing. Super productive.
Then, it came out that multitasking isn’t as good as we were led to believe. It’s actually counterproductive, and turns out that multitasking wastes time.
Multitasking is really task-switching; rapidly switching from one task to another. Your brain can only focus on one thing at a time, so you can never really do two things (or more) at once. In fact, each time you switch lanes, your brain needs time to catch up, thus slowing you down.
So is multitasking completely wrong?
Here’s the truth: There are situations in which multitasking is not bad. It just depends on the level of focus required for the task.
You know those tasks that you call “mindless”? Like washing dishes, folding laundry, or laminating and cutting? Tasks like these do not require a lot of focus. And if they are tasks that you dread, then multitasking can actually help. As long as it’s a passive activity, like watching a show, listening to music or a podcast, or talking with a friend. When you pair a mindless task that you want to avoid with an activity you look forward to, it makes completing that task more enjoyable.
In short, there’s a right way and a wrong way to multitask.
Productivity Myths #3: Procrastination is a problem
We are taught from a young age that procrastination is a bad thing. Usually we start hearing lectures about the evils of procrastination when we’re teenagers. But, the truth is procrastination can have a purpose.
Have you ever noticed that sometimes you work better under pressure? LIke you were able to get more done in less time, or focus better, or actually able to accept that done is better than perfect.
The truth is that procrastination can create the motivation that we sometimes need to get something done. Not every task is a priority. And not every task needs to be our absolute best work.
It’s easy to put off a boring task. But a boring task that needs to be done in 30 minutes can become a challenge, and challenges are exciting.
The key is to be careful about choosing which tasks you can procrastinate. High priority tasks that require your best work should not be something you procrastinate. But yes, you can put off grading those multiple choice quizzes. At least for a little while.
#4: Is productivity a skill?
We are often led to believe the myth that we’re either born naturally productive or we’re not. But here’s the thing: Productivity is NOT a personality trait. It’s not set in stone.
Productivity is a skill, and skills can be developed. Productivity is something that you can practice and hone over time.
Once you build your productivity skills, it can feel as though they come naturally to you. But you weren’t born productive.
Myth #5: Productivity means getting more done
What happens when you have a task that is not complete? Does it hang over your head so that you’re thinking about it during your free time? Do you spend extra time just to get it done? Does either option appeal to you?
This is the reason why productivity is a desirable skill. The purpose isn’t to be checking tasks off our to-do lists all the time. That is not how productivity is determined.
Instead, the purpose of productivity is to complete tasks so that we can fully enjoy our free time. Without thinking about what isn’t done. And without giving up our free time to complete them.
In other words, we’re not working to work some more so that we can get even more done. That’s a never ending cycle.
What productivity means
Instead, we’re working to complete our tasks in the least amount of time so that we can have more time for what we want to do. Productivity isn’t about getting more done. What productivity means is using the time you have most efficiently so that you can enjoy your down time.
How did you do? How many myths have you been falling for? It’s okay. Now that you know better you can do better. And if you want to get your teacher productivity the ultimate boost, get on the waitlist for the Productive Teacher Toolkit. This is my guide for being able to get it all done during school hours so that you can build freedom back into your nights and weekends.
Need more tips for boosting your teacher productivity in the meantime? Check out my productivity resources page.
