The Dark Source of My Extreme Productivity
It’s time for a change.
Coping mechanisms…
We all have them (to one degree or another.)
Some prefer alcohol, food, or drugs to calm the nervous system and silence those “pesky” emotions.
Others use video games or endlessly scrolling on social media to “numb out.”
In small doses, these vices are socially acceptable.
However, if one goes too far, their “coping mechanism” becomes disruptive, and they’re either shunned or, in the best cases, encouraged to seek help.
But other coping mechanisms like extreme productivity, over-exercising, and calorie restriction are far more insidious because they‘re celebrated in our culture.
For example, in my former career as an attorney, working yourself to death was a badge of honor.
It was common to hear young associates brag with equal parts pride and smugness —
I billed 75 hours last week and slept 2 hours a…
