Putting Productivity in Its Right Place
Introduction: When Productivity Feels Like a Double-Edged Sword
Yesterday, I spent a wonderful day with loved ones at the Chicago Botanical Garden, followed by a leisurely lunch, a movie, and a drive back home. I ended the day watching the 1995 Pride and Prejudice series — all six hours of it — with a very dear friend. I didn’t set an alarm and let myself sleep in until noon today. I started my morning slowly, having breakfast while listening to the Scriptures, and now I find myself sitting at my favorite window seat, soaking in the sun. Later, I plan to take a walk by the lake and attend Mass in the evening.
By any measure, it’s been a good couple of days — full of joy, rest, and meaningful connections. Yet, beneath all that peace, a small voice keeps whispering, “You’re being lazy. You’re wasting time.”
I suspect I’m not alone in this struggle. If you’re reading this, perhaps you also hear that accusing voice whenever you slow down. In a culture that worships productivity, it’s easy to believe that our worth is measured by how much we accomplish. But what if true productivity isn’t about doing more but about doing what matters, rooted in rest and God’s purposes for us?
The Misalignment: When Productivity Becomes a False God
My tendency to equate worth with productivity often leaves me feeling exhausted rather than fulfilled. The more detailed my plans and the more tasks I complete, the louder that small voice becomes, accusing me of never doing enough. It’s a Martha-like mentality — “worried and upset about many things” (Luke 10:41) — when Jesus is inviting me to sit at His feet like Mary, choosing the better part.
Key Insight:
The real issue isn’t the work itself but the belief that my worth depends on my output. This misalignment shifts my focus from “seeking first the Kingdom of God” (Matthew 6:33) to seeking first the approval of my inner taskmaster.
Reframing Productivity: Rest as Faithfulness, Not Laziness
The voice accusing me of laziness isn’t from God. In fact, Scripture paints a different picture:
Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Matthew 11:28: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
God’s invitation to rest isn’t a reward for productivity; it’s a reminder that our worth is secure in Him. By slowing down, we declare that God is sovereign, not our to-do lists.
Key Insight:
Rest is not the opposite of productivity; it’s the foundation of fruitful productivity.
Personal Reflection: A Lesson from the Botanical Garden
Walking through the Chicago Botanical Garden yesterday, I was struck by how every plant has its season of bloom and rest. None of them strive or hurry, yet they fulfill their purpose beautifully. Perhaps that’s a lesson for us too: True productivity is seasonal. There are times for focused work and times for rest, and both are part of God’s design.
Practical Steps: Putting Productivity in Its Right Place
1. Embrace Unhurried Time with God
Spend at least 15 minutes daily in prayer without an agenda.
2. Reframe Rest as Faithfulness
Thank God for moments of rest as part of your faithfulness.
3. Align Productivity with Purpose
Prioritize tasks that align with your core mission rather than filling your schedule.
4. Silence the Inner Critic
Respond with truth:
“My worth is in being God’s beloved, not in doing more.”
Conclusion: Seeking Fruitfulness, Not Busyness
If you’re struggling with the need to be productive every moment, know that you’re not alone. The invitation from Jesus is clear: “Come to Me, and I will give you rest.” True productivity isn’t about squeezing more into each day but about aligning our lives with God’s purposes — working from rest, not for rest.
As you move through today, let this thought guide you: “Productivity is not the goal; faithfulness is.” By putting productivity in its right place, we open ourselves to a life that is both fruitful and free.
Questions for Reflection:
Where in your life are you striving rather than trusting?
What’s one area where you can replace busyness with being present with God?
How can you reframe rest as an act of faithfulness this week?
