The Top 9 Productivity Myths That Just Aren't True

Todoist debunks nine pervasive productivity myths: copying habits of successful people (these are often context-specific, not universally applicable), maximizing every moment (humans have limited productive hours and constant work diminishes creativity), setting big goals (large goals can be overwhelming and lead to quitting), optimizing productivity apps endlessly (over-optimization becomes a distraction from actual work), using external rewards (intrinsic motivation is more sustainable), believing willpower is finite (self-control is variable and context-dependent), visualizing goal achievement (positive fantasies can make people complacent), staying constantly busy (busyness often indicates poor prioritization), and maintaining uncompromising regimens (harsh self-discipline can lead to anxiety and reduced productivity). Engineering leaders will learn that sustainable productivity comes from understanding these misconceptions and focusing on intrinsic motivation, appropriate challenge levels, and realistic time management.