Productivity Culture Has Me Feeling Exhausted

I love watching productivity and lifestyle content on TikTok. Usually, this consists of elaborate cooking, exercise and cleaning routines. But seeing people live these “perfect lives” has become almost harmful to me. 

At first, watching these videos felt inspirational. I love the idea of living a productive life. But the inspiration turned into guilt because I realized this lifestyle isn’t achievable for me. As a high school student, I’m in classes all day, participate in clubs after school and spend the rest of my night studying. I’m busy, but I’m not always productive.

Most of the time, people don’t show their restful moments online. So their curated content begins to feel like reality. But I know that isn’t the truth. Lately, I try to think of social media as a highlight reel rather than an accurate representation of a person and their life.

Being productive is something that’s still appealing to me. When I’m crossing off a lot on my to-do list, I feel a sense of joy. But I’m trying not to center my life around idealizing productivity. Instead, I’m trying to strike a balance between all aspects of my life — including allowing myself to rest.