Starting the Year Right: The Productivity-Peace Balance
Read time: 2 minutes
As soon as January 6th rolled around, I started noticing it—the “impossible task.” You’ve probably seen it too. It’s that culturally enforced directive to chase happiness and fulfillment by doing more. More tasks, more goals, more commitments.
It’s easy to get swept up in the fresh energy that comes with the New Year. But here’s the thing: that burst of productivity? It can quickly deplete the energy you just regained (hopefully!) during the holidays.
What if, instead of rushing forward, you kept the arrow pulled back just a little longer? Let the momentum build. Use the energy you already have—supported by a Groundwork-inspired approach to your calendar.
Here’s what I think is essential to examine in your schedule as you step into this New Year:
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Are you introducing too many new opportunities?
This is prime time for brainstorming and new ideas, which is wonderful—but don’t overcommit. Cross-check any new opportunities against your existing priorities to ensure they truly align. -
Does your schedule align with your best workflow?
Be honest: Is working on a strategic plan really doable after five back-to-back meetings? Probably not. Design your schedule in a way that supports your mind and spirit, not drains them. -
Have you considered implementing a no-meeting day?
It’s not a pipe dream! Many Groundwork alumni have convinced their teams to embrace a no-meeting day—and they’ve become workplace heroes because of it. You can, too. -
Are you back-to-back with no breaks?
That’s a one-way ticket to burnout. Build white space into your day—it’s not just okay; it’s essential.
I once saw a famous thought leader proudly showing off his 20-color-coded, wall-to-wall calendar on Instagram. No white space in sight. His caption read, “Your calendar should look like mine if you want to be successful.” Wild. Let me remind you: Hustling is not cool.
Through your Groundwork practice, you’re working with this core thesis: Peace and productivity are not mutually exclusive.
If you’re looking for guidance, I’d love to help. Send me a screenshot of your calendar this week, and I’ll share actionable feedback. As an Executive Coach who has reviewed hundreds of schedules, I can usually spot opportunities for improvement that go unnoticed.
Let’s make this year one of sustainable growth—on your terms.
The Groundwork System is a simple way to manage your inbox, to-do list, and calendar, and a simple way to understand and manage the triggers and pain that keep you in survival mode.
