Want a productivity tip? Forget apps and hacks

Productivity is not about ticking off endless tasks on a digital checklist. It hinges on the quality of engagement and self-awareness

- Jayashree Mahesh

In a recent statement, L&T chairperson S.N. Subrahmanyan insisted on the necessity of a 90-hour workweek, sparking a whirlwind of criticism and prompting discussions about the ideal number of hours for work.

The key to achieving work goals effectively, whether in a startup or a legacy organization, lies not in the quantity of hours spent working but in the quality of those hours.

In an age dominated by technology, several apps promise people the ability to work smarter, faster, and make the most out of 24 hours in a day. Many turn to time trackers, digital planners and habit trackers to maximize productivity.

Productivity, however, doesn't need apps or technology; it is not about ticking off tasks on a digital checklist. It hinges on the quality of engagement and self-awareness. This is called mindful productivity, which essentially focuses on understanding personal rhythms and goals, ensuring one completes an assigned task without feeling overwhelmed at any point, and also have a life outside working hours.

Mindful productivity denotes the notion of awareness, encapsulating the practice of focusing on present experiences and observing thoughts and feelings without judgment.

As Professor Ruth Baer explains in the article, Mindfulness Training as a Clinical Intervention: A Conceptual and Empirical Review, in the journal Clinical Psychology: Science and Practice, mindfulness is "bringing one's complete attention to the experience occurring in the present moment, in a non-judgmental or accepting way."

Rooted in ancient Buddhist traditions, its practical applications today are vital. This presence of mind allows individuals to tackle challenges—be it last-minute additional tasks or urgent deadlines—with clarity and composure.