Rethinking Productivity: Embracing Presence and Purpose in 2025

Plus the menu for the week of January 20-24th

It’s mid-January, and if you’re like me, the start of the year might feel a bit…off. My January didn’t launch with the productive momentum I’d envisioned, thanks to snow days right after the holiday break. Like many parents, after a long break, I was ready for routines and predictability.

But as I’ve been reflecting, I’ve realized this slower start gave me space to rethink my relationship with productivity.

Here’s the thing: I’m learning to let go of the idea that “productivity” equals worth. Growing up, I absorbed the belief that being productive was the pathway to success and approval, but I’m (slowly) unlearning that connection. Productivity isn’t inherently bad, but the way we define it—and the pressure we put on ourselves—matters.

One book that’s helped me shift my perspective is Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver Burkeman. Despite its title, it’s not your typical productivity guide. It’s about priorities, presence, and embracing the finite nature of life. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend it (or check out my podcast episode where I discuss it).

Love You More Podcast: Episode 27: What Are You Doing with your 4000 Weeks?

Here are some of my favorite takeaways from Four Thousand Weeks and how I’ve woven them into my life:

1. Productivity is a trap—but we can escape it.

Burkeman writes:

“Becoming more efficient just makes you more rushed…The day will never arrive when you finally have everything under control. Let’s start by admitting defeat: none of this is ever going to happen. But you know what? That’s excellent news.”

This was freeing for me. It gives me permission to look at my to-do lists with less dread, knowing there’s no such thing as “getting it all done.”