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Positively_Lisa

Why doing less is actually the answer (and how to do that).

Published 13 days ago • 2 min read

Reader

We live in a world that rewards more: more on the calendar, more on the to-do list, more commitments, more output. So we keep adding. And yet, adding more rarely makes us feel more accomplished. It usually just leaves us exhausted.

What if the problem isn't your productivity system? What if it's the assumption that more is the goal?

That's the core of Essentialism — a framework from Greg McKeown's book The Disciplined Pursuit of Less — and it's built on a simple, uncomfortable truth: you can't do everything well. Trying to waters down your ability to do anything exceptionally. The shift isn't about doing less for the sake of it. It's about choosing deliberately so that what you do actually lands somewhere that matters.

If you want to start practicing a more essentialist approach, consider these ideas:

If you want to stop over-committing, try the if/then filter: if it's not a clear, definite yes, then it's a no. It's a simple rule that removes a lot of noise before it ever reaches your calendar.

If you want to evaluate what's actually essential, separate what you've chosen from what you've inherited. Some commitments are deliberate. Others arrived through habit, obligation, or guilt and quietly stayed. Worth knowing which is which.

If you want to feel less reactive and more focused, ask a different question before saying yes to something new: what would I have to say no to in order to do this well? That one question changes the nature of the decision entirely.

Choosing less is countercultural. It can feel like falling behind, or like you're not doing enough, or like you're letting people down. But focused, sustainable productivity doesn't come from managing more, it comes from choosing better.

If you'd like to learn more and hear about all five strategies, check out Episode #333 of the Positively Living® Podcast:

>> Listen to the podcast here​

>> Read the blog post here​

If you want support figuring out what's actually essential in your specific life and work, that's exactly what a Clarity Call is for. It's a focused conversation to help you cut through the noise and get clear on what matters most. You can learn more and book yours at positivelyproductive.com/clarity-call.

In a world that rewards more, choosing less takes courage. The good news is it also works.

💜

Lisa

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Positively_Lisa

Productivity Coach + Podcast Host | Shame-free, Sustainable Solutions

I’m Lisa Zawrotny, a Productivity Coach, host of the Positively Living® Podcast, and founder of Positively Productive Systems, on a mission to redefine productivity with compassion. I help overwhelmed clients ditch hustle culture and design shame-free, personalized systems that lead to sustainable success—without burnout or sacrificing what they love. I believe productivity is meant to support a more satisfying, joy-filled life. For me, that means road-tripping with my husband and teens, making music with my family and friends, and inspiring others with my voice. One of my favorite ways to recharge is curling up with a book, an iced coffee, and a cat on my lap. ------------------------------------------- Check out the resources I offer below and request my Toolkit to reduce overwhelm, boost energy, and align your actions with your values!

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