A few years ago, I was sitting across from a school leader who looked completely spent.

He told me, almost proudly, “I’m working from 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. most days. I don’t stop moving.”

There was a pause. Then he added something quieter.

“I just don’t feel like I’m actually getting ahead.”

That sentence has stayed with me, because it names a tension so many leaders experience but rarely say out loud. We are constantly doing things, yet we’re not always making progress on the things that matter most.

This is the difference between real productivity and perceived productivity.

productivityNaphtali HoffJanuary 12, 2026Impactful Coaching & Consultingproduction, productivity, productive, busyness, trainingComment

How Slowing Down Fuels Greater Productivity

In a world obsessed with speed, pausing can feel counterintuitive. We’re told to hustle, grind, and push through. Every minute should be maximized. Every hour filled. But here's the paradox: sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is stop.

The pause—intentional, reflective, and strategic—is one of the most underused yet powerful tools for improving focus, creativity, and long-term effectiveness.

The Power of an Accountability Partner

Have you ever set a goal with the best intentions, only to find yourself procrastinating or losing motivation? Why is it so hard to stay on track when we rely solely on ourselves? The truth is most people struggle with self-accountability. Without external reinforcement, it’s easy to make excuses, get distracted, or let priorities shift. This is where an accountability partner can make all the difference.

How to Truly Disconnect on Vacation

When was the last time you truly disconnected on vacation? Not just a quick weekend away with your laptop in tow, but a real break—no emails, no work calls, no notifications buzzing like a swarm of bees in your pocket. If that sounds like a distant memory, you’re not alone. Many of us struggle to unplug, but learning to truly disconnect is the key to recharging and making the most of your time off. Here’s how to do it.

Staying Productive During the Holidays Lead-Up

The lead-up to the holiday season can be a whirlwind of activity. Between planning, buying gifts, and preparing for time off, it’s easy to let productivity slip as your mind starts to wander toward the joys of the holiday. However, this period also offers a unique opportunity to finish the calendar year strong and prepare for a smooth return after the festivities. Here’s how to stay productive while embracing the holiday spirit.

How to Stay Productive When Work is Slow

Ahh, another Monday 🙁

While most people don't look forward to Monday, it typically is one of the most productive days of the week.

But what happens when business/work is slow?

12 Reasons We Struggle to Be More Productive

Most people struggle to be productive. These struggles can stem from a range of internal and external factors, each contributing to inefficiencies and a sense of unfulfillment. By understanding the root causes of our productivity barriers, we can take targeted actions to overcome them. Here are some of the main reasons why people like us struggle with productivity:

Want to Get More Done? Embrace the Power of the Pause

Not all work hours were created equal. To be more productive throughout the long workday, it is critical to know when to take breaks.

Many of us have experienced times when our mental capacity feels diminished at certain hours of the day. Personally, I have found that tasks requiring substantial cognitive effort or those with a high risk of error are best avoided after a specific time. This is not due to a lack of commitment, but rather a recognition that my optimal mental state has waned. This self-awareness is crucial for maintaining high productivity and minimizing stress.

The Difference Between Productivity and Busyness

Productivity is about achieving meaningful results and making the most of your time, while busyness is simply being occupied with activities, whether they are important or not. The key to personal and professional success is to prioritize productivity over busyness, focusing on tasks and activities that truly contribute to your goals and using your time efficiently and effectively.

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