Why Does Productivity Feel so Hard Right Now?
Why Does Productivity Feel so Hard Right Now?
The pandemic has shed a light on the hustle culture of America, and it deeply concerns me. We are going through a shared global trauma. It’s okay to be terrified and unproductive. With such a huge unwanted change in lifestyle for so many people, it’s not surprising that a lot of us are in a slump. If you’d rather play video games right now than write a novel or learn how to bake, that’s fine.
Digital Wellbeing
This Wired article points out that frantic productivity is a fear response. We’re scared of what’s going on around us so we run around putting out fires hoping that will bring relief. In a country that has largely distanced itself from typical religion, we take solace in capitalistic cures to our ailments. But just like The Black Death diminished the power of the church and The Great Depression led to The New Deal, it’s possible that the future will hold massive social and economic change.
Let’s talk about another facet of 2020 self worth, social media comparison. FOMO has stuck around in the age of social distancing. We may not be seeing as many perfect millennial vacation snapshots, but seeing screenshots of your friends on Houseparty without you stings. Additionally, with everyone posting their “quarantine projects” it’s easy to compare.
Also, I’m excited to share an app I found that I’ve wished existed for a long time. Lifestyle apps that guilt you into doing tasks are a dime a dozen, but what about a more gentle approach? Aloe Bud is an adorable self care app that will kindly remind you to make healthy choices.
Connected Culture
Fever Dreams
What will life be like after Covid-19? Here’s an anthology of hopeful stories that seek to answer that question.
People Tell Us How Going on Video Chat First Dates Worked Out
With bars and coffee shops closed down, dating is going virtual. The new medium brings with it new challenges. Tip: lock your Houseparty session, or your date might get crashed.
COVID Sucks, People Don't
The pandemic is terrible, yeah, but so is constantly swimming in news about how terrible it is. Hank Green recently started a podcast called Covid Sucks, People Don’t. If you want to learn more about the science behind fighting the disease, hear what every day people are doing to make an impact, or just take a break from the usual doom and gloom of Covid news, check it out.
-Madi
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