The Most Overlooked Way to Be More Productive

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Hey there,

When we think productivity, most of us think go mode: to-do lists, packed calendars, late nights, and inbox zero fantasies.

Once we catch a rhythm, it’s tempting to just keep riding the wave—longer hours, less downtime, more output.

But eventually, even the most efficient system crashes if you never reboot it.

Here’s the problem: we forget that sustainable productivity isn’t just about doing more—it’s about doing less, better.

And ironically, the most overlooked piece of the productivity puzzle?

Rest.

Think of yourself as a video game character — every email, errand, and spreadsheet chips away at your energy bar.

Sure, you can grab an espresso power-up, but that’ll only get you so far. Eventually, the only true recharge is rest.

And without it, your battery doesn’t fully replenish—until one day, you’re operating at 60% and wondering why everything feels like a slog.

I’ve made this mistake more times than I can count.

Push past your limits long enough, and burnout isn’t just likely—it’s inevitable.

Real productivity requires balance. It means taking rest just as seriously as work, and being intentional about it.

That’s where boundaries come in—daily, weekly, and monthly.

Daily: Decide when work starts and ends. That extra hour at night might feel productive, but your future self pays the price.

Weekly: Actually take the weekend off. No “quick emails” on Sunday. No “just one task” on Saturday. You’re not a machine, though even machines overheat.

Monthly: Schedule real downtime—what I call a deep break. Think of it like Cal Newport’s Deep Work, but in reverse.

Instead of focused output, you disconnect entirely—no work, no news, no doomscrolling.

Just space to think, reset, and remember who you are outside of your inbox.

Recently, Mel and I took one of these deep breaks.

We have rules: leave home, limit screen time, and don’t bring work. 

It’s amazing how much clarity you gain when you step away from the grind. You start to see what actually matters—and what you’ve just been doing out of habit.

When I came back, I wasn’t just recharged—I was sharper, more focused, and actually excited to dive back in.

That’s the power of rest done right.

Look, I still break my own rules. But the key is self-awareness. 

Know when to press pause. Build rest into your system, not as a reward but as a requirement.

Because the truth is, the most productive people aren’t the ones who never stop—they’re the ones who know when to.

Have a wonderful week, all.
Be sure to find time for some rest - Scott (@motivatedscott).

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