Are You Too Busy to Be Productive?

I've just read a really interesting article by Jimmy Guterman on the O'Reilly Radar, although this article is primarily about Guterman's feelings regarding the "Getting Things Done" system, it poses an interesting and thought provoking question - are you taking on too much to really be effective?

His argument is that "Getting Things Done" definitely has its place, but it cannot stop you taking on more than you should. I have to say I agree with this. Although all the productivity tips and systems can be of great help in getting things done productively and effectively, there comes a point where this is simply no longer possible. If you over-extend yourself you will not be productive, and even worse, you will probably become one of the many statistics who suffered from burn out.

Our world is placing more and more pressure on us to perform, but at the same time people are becoming sicker than ever before, despite the improved health care. It is important to realize what your limits are and to live up to, but not over, these limits.

Take some time to work out what you want to accomplish with your life, set some goals, but make sure that these are realistic and that you can actually fulfill these goals. Once you have done this, stick to them and don't allow yourself to become distracted with too many other activities that cause us to become over-extended and burn out.

With all the productivity systems in the world, you can still only be productive to a point. If you over-extend yourself, not only will your productivity suffer, but you are also asking for major health problems. Take care of yourself, decide what you want to accomplish in life and do what is realistic. Don't allow yourself or others to push you beyond your own limitations.