If the answer is <Increasing Productivity>, what is the question?

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Rux Dariescu
Sustainable Business Performance Coach
Automatic Summary

Increasing Productivity: Reevaluating the Questions We Ask

In the quest for increased productivity and improved performance, we often overlook a significant aspect: The types of questions we're asking. This article will approach productivity from a new angle, inviting you to explore the potential benefits of asking the right questions about performance and productivity.

Understanding the Controversy surrounding Productivity

Our world is saturated with conflicting information about productivity, with some advocating for positive work cultures while others highlight the implications of workplace stress and fatigue. The pervasive question remains: Is productivity positive or negative? Do technological advancements and collaborative workspaces enhance or undermine our productivity?

Defining Productivity: An Organizational Perspective

From an organization's standpoint, productivity usually aligns closely with numbers, particularly profit margins. Factors such as market operations, sales, revenue, and business strategy contribute to these margins. However, the primary questions surrounding productivity often gravitate towards quantity and speed: 'how much?', 'how many?' and 'how fast?'

The Individual Perspective on Productivity

From an individual perspective, the idea of productivity changes. Productivity hinges on skills, trust, prioritized work, technology application, knowledge, collaboration, and time management. The intersectionality of these elements forms the foundation of personal productivity.

Disconnected Narratives of Productivity

When discussing productivity, it's crucial to understand that each individual's performance narratives, connected through shared purpose, contribute to overall results. However, micro-stresses experienced by each employee can counteract productivity, resulting in reduced results.

Rephrasing the Productivity Question

The solution? Instead of focusing on "increasing productivity," we should ask: "Are we connected through purpose?" The reality is that without connection, productivity is impossible. When individual performances are unlocked through purpose, productivity increases organically.

Addressing Productivity-Related Questions

1. Lack of Purpose or Interest in a Project

Even without interest or perceived purpose, acknowledge the immediate rationale for undertaking a task, for instance, getting paid. Use this moment to observe and understand what drives you towards purposefulness. Prioritize differently or organize work in a way that frees up space for exploration and growth.

2. Misalignment Between Team and Global Objectives

In large, global organizations, miscommunication and lack of alignment may occur. It’s vital that teams and the upper echelons of the organization bridge these gaps, restoring trust and improving productivity.

3. Two Teams, One Product, Different Purposes

Two teams with different purposes, working on the same product, must find alignment on strategic thinking and work in harmony. Purpose doesn't just happen- maintaining alignment is a daily effort carried out through conscious collaboration.

Productivity is not a one-size-fits-all concept, and its interpretation can vary significantly from one individual or organization to another. It's crucial to keep revising and reconsidering the questions we ask about productivity, ensuring that our inquiries align with our ever-evolving perspectives.

For more detailed insights about purpose and its various dimensions, refer to my book available at book.com. I extend an open invitation to connect with me on LinkedIn or write to me at hello@dot.com for any further discussions or queries related to productivity and performance.


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