“A Collection of Short Essays on Productivity in Practice”
Volume 1, September 2024. Article 8.
Achieving Productivity While Staying Happy and Healthy
Remi DAIRO, Fellow of WAPS, U.S.A. / NIGERIA
In the contemporary fast-paced technological landscape, achieving high productivity levels has become increasingly complex. Traditional methods typically focus on optimizing processes, implementing cutting-edge tools, and refining management techniques while overlooking the critical aspect of human involvement. Proposed here is a comprehensive approach to productivity that integrates both tangible and intangible elements, acknowledging that true efficiency arises from a harmonious combination of resources, procedures, and individuals.
Productivity encompasses a wide array of factors, including the effective utilization of tools and resources. While having access to appropriate physical machinery, software applications, and financial assets is crucial, their selection, application, and integration must align with task requirements and user preferences to ensure actual productivity. Moreover, well-structured processes and efficient managerial practices are essential components of robust productivity frameworks. This involves streamlining workflows, implementing project-management methodologies, and establishing organizational structures.
The strategic adoption of agile methodologies, lean principles, or other management models can significantly enhance productivity outcomes. In today’s digital era marked by technological advancements ranging from artificial intelligence to robotic process automation, technology plays a central role in driving productivity enhancements. However, successful integration of these technologies should aim to complement rather than replace human capabilities.
Healthy Human Workforce
We need to recognize that human factors play a pivotal role in boosting productivity levels. Physical health forms the foundation for sustained productivity performance through elements such as ergonomic work environments, regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest. Organizations that prioritize employee well-being through wellness initiatives and supportive policies often witness notable enhancements in productivity levels.
Furthermore, mental and emotional well-being significantly impact an individual’s productivity levels. Effective stress-management strategies, mindfulness practices, and mental-health support are vital for maintaining focus, creativity, and resilience. A positive emotional state fosters engagement and internal motivation leading to increased productivity outcomes. Human beings are naturally inclined towards social interactions, and productivity thrives in collaborative environments.
Building strong interpersonal relationships, fostering clear communication channels, and creating a sense of belonging all contribute to a conducive work environment. Team dynamics, mentorship initiatives, and networking opportunities are crucial in driving innovation and efficiency.
Research revealed the significant financial impact of mental-health issues on UK employers, amounting to approximately £56 billion annually. This financial burden includes costs such as presenteeism totaling around £28 billion, staff turnover expenses of about £22 billion, and absenteeism contributing roughly £6 billion. 1
Employees take an average of 18 days off each year to address stress, depression, or anxiety — surpassing the days taken off for injuries (10 days), musculoskeletal problems (15 days), and health issues (17 days). The total number of lost workdays due to work-related health issues and injuries has significantly increased to 36.8 million days compared to previous years. Health is cited as a key factor influencing employee retention by 61% of workers when considering leaving their jobs. 1
Productivity losses due to fatigue amount to approximately US$1,967 per employee annually. Research indicates that 41% of employees believe stress negatively affects their productivity, with half reporting losing between one to five hours of work due to stress. Additionally, over 70% of employees express concerns about stressors during working hours, with half spending one to five hours per week addressing these worries. 2
Holistic Productivity is a Sustainable Model
To achieve comprehensive productivity improvement, organizations and individuals must recognize the interconnectedness of various elements by aligning tools with human needs, designing processes that balance efficiency with well-being, nurturing a culture that values performance alongside personal growth, implementing management strategies that support holistic employee wellness, and consistently evaluating and adjusting the equilibrium among factors influencing productivity.
Key components essential for holistic productivity enhancement include aligning tools with human needs; designing efficient yet well-being-oriented processes; fostering a culture valuing performance and personal growth; implementing supportive management strategies; and regularly assessing the balance among different factors impacting productivity. Emphasizing the importance of adequate sleep, nutrition, exercise, and overall physical well-being is crucial for physical health. Managing stress levels effectively, practicing mindfulness, preserving cognitive abilities, and being in tune with emotions are key aspects of mental and emotional well-being. Building healthy relationships, fostering communication channels, and cultivating a sense of belonging are essential components of social connections that contribute to holistic productivity enhancement.
Continuous learning and skill development involve acquiring new knowledge and abilities to stimulate the mind and expand cognitive capacities. Utilizing appropriate tools, technologies, and resources tailored to individual needs is vital. Processes and management include implementing efficient workflows, project strategies, and organizational frameworks.
Inner reflection consists of regularly practicing self-awareness and staying true to core values. Acceptance encourages embracing life rather than resisting it to conserve energy and build connections. The holistic productivity approach highlights the interconnectedness of these elements and their impact on each other.
In essence, holistic productivity represents a shift from traditional narrowly-focused approaches toward a comprehensive sustainable model. By recognizing the intricate relationship between tools, processes, technology, and human factors, individuals and organizations can achieve higher efficiency levels. This approach not only boosts immediate productivity but also ensures long-term sustainability and fulfillment.
At its core, holistic productivity recognizes humans as central to all productive systems. By nurturing physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being while providing suitable tools and processes creates an environment conducive to natural productivity growth. Embracing this holistic perspective is essential in today’s complex world for achieving substantial improvements in productivity that are meaningful and lasting.
References
1 “The Good, the bad, and the downright Scary. A round up of 15 wellbeing statistics to frighten you,” Psychology Works. https://www.psychologyworks.global/blog/wellbeing-statistics-to-frighten-you-this-halloween-2023
2 “21 Remarkable Productivity Statistics [2023],” Aleksandar Dimovski, Go Remotely, March 7, 2023. https://goremotely.net/blog/productivity-statistics
About the Author
Mr. Remi Dairo is a seasoned productivity coach specializing in empowering high-achieving professionals who are experiencing burnout and stress. Through his effective coaching methodology, clients regain their sense of power, productivity, and purpose.
Dairo serves as President of the Institute of Productivity and Business Innovation Management (IPBIM) Africa and holds the position of CEO at Productivate Plus LLC in Houston, Texas, U.S.A.