At its core, productivity addiction is based on the same reward systems as other addictions. By providing constant reinforcement — for example financial rewards in the form of salary increases, or social rewards in the form of work recognition — productivity can become a goal in and of itself, resulting in compulsive behaviours.

in the long term, being obsessed with productivity can have unintended consequences, such as burnout, family issues, and health problems.

“The problem is that just like all addictions, over time a person needs more and more to be satisfied and then it starts to work against you. Withdrawal symptoms include increased anxiety, depression and fear.”

At least in the Western world, our education has often taught us to tie our self-worth to how much we contribute to society. The more we contribute, the better. “I work, therefore I am.” Being productive feels like a way to improve our self-worth.

Productivity addicts may suffer from time anxiety, an obsession about spending our time in the most meaningful way possible.

time anxiety stems from these recurring questions: “Am I creating the greatest amount of value with my life that I can? Will I feel, when it comes my time to die, that I spent too much of my time frivolously?”

Take breaks, become comfortable with doing nothing, and most importantly, define what “time well spent” means to you so you can make space for these moments.