By Amy Rehkemper, CPO
There’s a lot of mixed messaging out there about what we “should” be doing during this extended time sequestered at home. Some are saying, “Take advantage of this time to achieve your life goals!… write that novel, learn a language, lose the weight!” The idea being pushed here is that you must GET THINGS DONE. Whether it’s completing a long-overdue household task, or doing something wildly creative, the message is clear: be productive.
There’s another perspective we’re hearing and that’s: “NOT being super productive is okay.” The rationale here is that being quarantined does not shape-shift you into the next Martha Stewart or Steven King. So don’t feel guilty if you’re not feeling up to par with the Facebook Joneses. This camp is saying… it’s not wrong to stay in your soft pants, eat cookies, and binge-watch your favorite TV series. You just do you!
So which is it? Obviously, we at SIMPLIFY lean toward the side of being productive, but not to the extent that you sacrifice your happiness. Our advice to you is…. no matter how you choose to spend your days, just be intentional. Take 15 minutes every night before bed to identify a plan for the next day. Sure, that plan may involve Netflix and your La-Z-Boy. That’s okay… own it! Don’t succumb to resignation or guilt. Whatever degree of productivity you choose, do it on purpose with a plan in hand.
STEP 1- Plan
STEP 2- Follow-through on that plan
STEP 3- Repeat
P.S. Here are those articles in case you’re inspired by either perspective!