When Did Everything Become Productive?

We track our steps. Count our reps. Measure our sleep. Make to-do lists. Set goals for our careers, workouts, finances, hobbies, and just about everything in between. 

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to get better at something. Goals can give us direction, and seeing what we’re capable of can be incredibly motivating. But when did everything need to accomplish something? 

In recognition of World Mental Health Day, consider making a little room for things that don’t come with a goal attached. 

Do Something Just Because You Like It 

Think about the last time you did something without trying to get better at it. Maybe you went for a walk without tracking your pace. Cooked something because it sounded good. Rewatched a favorite show. Picked up an old hobby with zero intention of mastering it. 

There doesn’t always have to be a next level. Sometimes enjoying what you’re doing is reason enough to do it. 

Your Workout Can Be That, Too 

Some workouts are about adding another plate to the bar, reaching a milestone, or working toward a goal you’ve had for months. Others can simply be about moving because you like how it feels. 

Take the Group Fitness class you always look forward to. Shoot hoops for a while. Put on your headphones and walk on the treadmill. Choose the workout you’re excited to do, even if it wasn’t part of the plan. Both kinds of days have a place in your routine. 

Give Your Attention Somewhere to Go 

Even the things we do for fun can start competing for our attention. A walk comes with a podcast. Dinner comes with a screen. A conversation happens while we’re checking notifications. Try doing one thing at a time every once in a while. 

Call someone and actually talk. Listen to an album without doing something else at the same time. Sit outside for a few minutes without reaching for your phone. It doesn’t have to become a new habit or another item on your list. That’s kind of the point. 

Leave a Little Room for No Finish Line 

Keep setting goals that matter to you. Keep challenging yourself. Keep working toward things you’re proud of. 

Just leave a little room for things you enjoy simply because you enjoy them. Not everything needs a metric, milestone, or finish line to be worth your time.