Feel-Good Productivity: A Gentler Way to Get Things Done
Most of us associate productivity with pushing harder — through tiredness, self-doubt, or guilt. But Feel Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal flips that idea on its head, that the most meaningful work doesn’t come from white-knuckled discipline, but from working in ways that make you feel lighter, happier, and more energised.
This book gave me language and tools for a way of working I’ve been slowly growing into — one that’s grounded not in pressure, but in play, permission, and presence. I hope these takeaways help you reconnect with your own energy and pace too!
What is Feel-Good Productivity about?
Productivity isn’t about forcing discipline.
It’s about doing more of what makes you feel happier, less stressed, and more energised.
Key Concepts That Stood Out
Each of these concepts felt especially relevant to this season of my life and work — offering practical shifts in how I think, create, and care for my energy.
Play
Ali argues that fun isn’t a distraction from productivity — it can fuel it. By asking, “What would this look like if it were fun?”, you turn even the most mundane tasks into something lighter and more engaging. Play boosts motivation and reduces resistance.
Beginner’s Mind
This is the mindset of approaching every task or challenge as if it’s the first time — with curiosity, not ego. By letting go of the idea that we should already know everything, we give ourselves permission to explore, ask questions, and stay open. It’s okay not to be an expert — and to learn out loud.
The Protégé Effect
We learn best when we teach others. This idea reframes imposter syndrome — reminding us that we don’t need to be experts to be helpful. Often, the most relatable teachers are just a step ahead, learning in real time. Sharing what you know — even imperfectly — deepens your own understanding and invites others along for the journey.
Procrastination = Uncertainty, Fear, Inertia
Ali breaks down procrastination into three main blockers:
Uncertainty (I don’t know how to start)
Fear (What if I fail or look silly?)
Inertia (I just can’t get going)
By naming what’s behind the resistance, we can respond more wisely — and move forward with less shame.
Identifying which of these is blocking me helps me move forward with more compassion.
The Reitoff Principle
Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is… nothing. This principle is about giving yourself full permission to step away — intentionally “writing off” the day. When done with intention, rest becomes a strategy, not a failure.
Why This Hit Home
I used to be hard on myself for having unproductive days — as if I was falling behind or not disciplined enough.
This book helped me see there are many ways to work that aren’t about pushing harder, but about being kinder and more curious.
I’ve started using the Reitoff Principle more freely — giving myself full permission to rest when needed. That pause often brings more clarity and energy than trying to force through.
Beginner’s mind reminded me it’s okay to not have all the answers. I’ve stopped feeling sheepish — and started leaning into curiosity.
The Protégé Effect reminded me that I don’t have to be an expert to share or teach. Sometimes the best guides are the ones just a little further along.
How I’m Applying This
Personally
I ask myself: “What would this look like if it were fun?” Especially when I feel resistance toward a task. A small shift in mindset often brings fresh energy.
I’ve started being kinder to myself on the off-days. Instead of spiraling, I remind myself: “I didn’t do X, but I did do Y.” There’s always something worth acknowledging.
Professionally
I use the five-minute rule to break inertia. Just five minutes of focused effort often leads to surprising momentum.
I’ve embraced the Protégé Effect by sharing what I know now — even if I’m still learning. We don’t need to wait until we’re “experts” to be useful. Sometimes, being just one step ahead makes you the most relatable guide.
A Few Shifts in Perspective
From: “I must push through.”
To: “What’s the lightest way I can move forward today?”
From: “I have to know everything.”
To: “I’ll learn as I go — and share as I learn.”
From: “This day is a write-off.”
To: “I’m choosing to rest — and that’s valid.”
How it aligns with my personal values
Here’s how this book deepened my connection to the values that guide me most:
Creative Growth
Play, curiosity, and the beginner’s mind reminded me that growth doesn’t have to be serious. It can be light, exploratory, and joyful — and that’s still meaningful.
Freedom with Purpose
By shifting from rigid discipline to energy-led action, I’ve reclaimed the freedom to work in ways that align with how I actually feel — without losing momentum or clarity.
Joyful Momentum
This book is a celebration of small, playful steps. It encouraged me to take action from a place of energy, not guilt — and to trust that joy is a legitimate strategy.
Intentional Impact
The Protégé Effect reminded me that I don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. Sharing generously, even in-progress, still creates ripple effects.
Rooted Relationships
When I work from a more resourced, energised place, I can show up with more presence and care — not just in my work, but in my relationships too.
How You Can Start Applying This
You don’t need to overhaul your entire routine to work with more energy and joy. Start small. Here are a few gentle entry points to begin your own feel-good productivity shift:
Try the Five-Minute Rule
Pick a task you’ve been avoiding. Set a timer for five minutes. Tell yourself you can stop after that — but just start. Often, momentum kicks in once you begin.
Ask: “What would this look like if it were fun?”
Take one task on your to-do list today and reframe it. Could you change the environment, make it social, turn it into a game, or approach it more playfully?
Celebrate the Small Wins
Use this reframe: “I didn’t do X, but I did do Y.” Progress is still progress — even if it doesn’t look like what you planned.
Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Feeling stuck or heavy? Try the Reitoff Principle. Step away on purpose. Trust that rest is productive when it helps you return clearer and more resourced.
One Last Thought on Feel-good Productivity
These aren’t tactics for doing more — they’re tools for doing better. Gentler. Lighter. And more in sync with what matters most to you.
Feel-Good Productivity doesn’t ask you to work less.
It asks you to work better — with more joy, self-awareness, and care.
And when your energy is lighter, your work often flows faster, feels clearer, and lands deeper.
