Geezy TED Talk: Busy Isn’t the Same as Productive

Geezy TED Talk: Busy Isn’t the Same as Productive

Somewhere along the way, “busy” became a badge of honor.

We say it like a flex.
We wear it like proof.
We treat exhaustion as evidence that we’re doing enough.

But here’s the uncomfortable truth: being busy doesn’t always mean you’re being productive.

Busy can look like answering messages all day but never creating.
Busy can look like tweaking a design for the 12th time instead of listing it.
Busy can look like scrolling, reacting, overthinking, comparing, and calling it “research.”

Productivity, on the other hand, is quieter.
It’s intentional.
It doesn’t always feel urgent or impressive.

Productive is finishing the thing.
Productive is setting boundaries and sticking to them.
Productive is choosing the task that actually moves the needle instead of the one that just keeps your hands occupied.

And let’s talk about burnout for a second.
Burnout doesn’t come from doing meaningful work.
It comes from doing too much meaningless work while telling yourself you’re falling behind.

You do not owe anyone constant availability.
You do not owe the algorithm your peace.
You do not have to be “on” every single day to be legitimate.

Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is:

• Pause instead of push

• Finish instead of perfect

• Log off instead of spiral

So if today feels heavy, ask yourself this:
Am I actually being productive… or am I just staying busy because slowing down feels scary?

Choose progress over pressure.
Choose intention over noise.

And remember: rest is not quitting. It’s refueling.