Why You Don't Need to "Stick to a System" (A Rebellious Guide to Productivity)
Let's Talk About That "Perfect System" Myth
Look, I get it. You want to find that one magical productivity system that'll solve all your problems. I've been there too - trying to force myself into someone else's idea of organization and efficiency.
But here's the thing: we're complex humans with varying needs, circumstances, hormones, emotions, etc. What happens when...
You wake up cranky?
Someone says something "off" in a meeting and derails your day?
You forgot to take your meds?
You're in a rougher phase of your cycle?
Life hits you with unexpected grief or stress?
Can one system really work through ALL of that? (Spoiler alert: nope.)
Think Toolkit, Not System
Instead of trying to stick to one perfect method, I help my clients build what I call a systems toolkit. It's like having a legit toolbox - sometimes you need a wrench, other times you need that weird L-shaped thing that comes with IKEA furniture (I have like 20 of those for absolutely no reason).
What Goes in Your Toolkit
For Those "Everything Is Too Much" Days
Grab an undated planner or random Post-It (dated planners are a trap, I'm saying this with love)
Break out the Chill Prioritization Matrix (more on that in a sec)
Block your calendar with buffer time because meetings back-to-back is cruel
Ignore your email (it can wait, I promise)
For Low Energy Times
Quick brain dumps in Google Keep
Let Grain transcribe your meetings (because who can take notes when tired?)
Extended lunch breaks with your favorite show (self-care, babes)
Work with your cycle, not against it
When Motivation Has Left the Chat
Join a virtual co-working session (community makes everything better)
Camp out at a coffee shop
Move your body (even if it's just dancing to embarrassing music)
How to Actually Use This Stuff
First step? Give yourself permission to be inconsistent. Sometimes you'll use Habitica religiously, other times you'll forget it exists. That's okay!
Let me say this with all the love and compassion in my heart: "being more disciplined" isn't always the answer, especially for those of us with 'squiggly' or creative brains.
Instead of beating yourself up for not using your planner for two months, try this: "Hey, writing things down feels supportive today. I'm going to do that, regardless of how long it's been."
The Bottom Line
Your productivity system should work for YOU - not the other way around. Build your toolkit with things that actually help, and don't feel bad about switching them up when needed.
Think of it like my relationship with power tools - I used to joke that handiness skipped my generation. But during the pandemic, I learned the value of knowing which tool to use when. (Also, power drills are WAY cooler than I expected. They weren't kidding with the "power" part.)
So start collecting your tools. Try different things. Keep what works, ditch what doesn't. And remember - you're doing better than you think you are.
