8 signs you’re stuck in a cycle of toxic productivity ‘even at the detriment of your own health, wellbeing’—and how to get out of it

Jennifer was interviewed for CNBC Make It

In the article, Jennifer Moss, a professional speaker and author of *Why Are We Here?: Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants*, sheds light on the concept of "toxic productivity"—a state in which individuals push themselves to be constantly productive, often at the cost of their health and wellbeing. Jennifer explains that while productivity is generally seen as a positive attribute, when it becomes excessive, it leads to burnout, exhaustion, and a lack of work-life balance.

Jennifer emphasizes that toxic productivity is characterized by a constant sense of urgency and societal pressure to perform, resulting in feelings of never having enough time to rest or enjoy personal activities. People trapped in this cycle may find themselves working beyond their set hours, skipping breaks, neglecting relationships, and abandoning hobbies. This kind of mindset can reduce overall productivity, as Jennifer notes that working longer hours without rest actually leads to diminishing returns.

To combat this, Jennifer encourages individuals to embrace "productive rest," which she views as essential for long-term effectiveness. She references Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith's "7 Types of Rest"—a framework that includes physical, mental, emotional, and social rest, among others. Jennifer argues that integrating rest into one's routine can improve creativity, efficiency, and even productivity, as supported by research showing that taking breaks, such as vacations, can boost performance. Ultimately, Jennifer advocates for prioritizing rest to achieve sustainable productivity and avoid the harmful effects of toxic work habits.