dark blue blog banner with light blue writing | the not-so-secret anxiety diary | mental health blog for high achievers and entrepreneurs

AVOID THE TOXIC PRODUCTIVITY TRAP WITH THESE 10 TIPS

Hustle culture is often celebrated and if you are not looking to improve or advance well then you’re left behind….or so your mind tells you.

In addition to hustle culture comes this behavior of toxic productivity.

Constantly being busy, having things going, in constant “work mode” to the point where it begins interfering with other parts of your life.

iMac with black screen and white words saying Do More | toxic productivity | toxic productivity and entrepreneurs | toxic productivity and burnout

Toxic productivity can impact your romantic relationships, friendships, and how you care for yourself and can lead to burnout.

Constantly “doing” has left you undone.

Keep reading to learn more about toxic productivity and what you can do to overcome toxic productivity.

I am an online anxiety therapist in Wilmington, NC. I specialize in providing therapy for high-achieving women experiencing challenges such as stress, anxiety, perfectionism, and burnout.

Calm Waters Counseling is located in Wilmington, NC offers online anxiety therapy in North Carolina and Maryland.

Ready to get started? Click the button below to schedule your free 15-minute consultation with me.

Reserve my consultation spot

Keep reading to learn more about how to overcome toxic productivity.

10 Ways You Can Overcome Toxic Productivity

As a high achiever, an entrepreneur, or a business owner it can get really easy to get caught up in the toxic productivity mindset.

If this sounds all too familiar, check out these 10 tips below on how you can start to overcome toxic productivity.

Tip #1 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Define your goals

The first step to overcoming toxic productivity is to define your goals. What do you want to achieve? What are your deadlines? Once you have a clear understanding of your goals, you can start to develop a plan to achieve them.

paper on desk with words GOAL REVIEW | goal planning and goal assessing | goals and productivity

Tip #2 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Set realistic expectations

It is important to set realistic expectations for yourself. If you set unrealistic goals, you are more likely to become frustrated and discouraged. When setting your goals, be realistic about what you can achieve in the time frame that you have.

Tip #3 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Take breaks

To avoid burnout, it is important to take breaks throughout the day. Step away from your work for a few minutes every hour or so and take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Taking breaks will help you to stay focused and productive when you return to work.

Tip #4 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Delegate and outsource

If possible, delegate tasks or outsource work to others. This will help to lighten your workload and allow you to focus on the tasks that are most important to you.

Tip #5 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Set boundaries at work

It is important to set boundaries with your work.

Make sure that you are taking time for yourself and your personal life outside of work. This will help you to maintain a healthy balance and avoid becoming overwhelmed by your work.

Tip #6 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Make time for self-care

Self-care is essential for maintaining your mental health and well-being. Make sure to schedule time for activities that make you happy and help you relax. This could include things like reading, spending time in nature, or exercising.

women standing together smiling and laughing | create a support system | entrepreneurs and support systems

Tip #7 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Connect with others

Isolation can be a major trigger for anxiety and depression. Make sure to schedule time for social activities that you enjoy, such as meeting up with friends or attending social events. If you’re feeling particularly isolated, reach out to a therapist or counselor who can provide support and guidance.

Tip #8 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Be mindful of your thoughts

Your thoughts can have a big impact on your mental health. If you find yourself dwelling on negative thoughts, try to reframe them in a more positive light. For example, instead of thinking “I’m such a failure,” try telling yourself “I’m doing my best and I’m learning from my mistakes.”

Tip #9 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Set personal boundaries

One of the most important things you can do to protect your mental health is to set boundaries. This means learning to say no to commitments that you don’t have time for or that are too stressful.

Tip #10 to Overcome Toxic Productivity: Seek professional help

If you’re struggling to cope with stress or anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist can provide you with tools and strategies for managing your symptoms and improving your mental health.

ACT Therapy in Wilmington, NC at Calm Waters Counseling

Constantly staying busy and not being able to “turn off” for rest and care will impact your health and well-being.

Being part of a “hustle culture” leads to anxiety, stress, and burnout.

Setting healthy boundaries and taking good care of yourself is essential and needed as an entrepreneur and business owner.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy can help you to overcome toxic productivity by helping you explore your values and take action, be more in the present, and improve psychological flexibility when it comes to handling challenging thoughts and feelings.