Does Doing Nothing Feel Uncomfortable Neurologist Reveals Why You Are Addicted To Productivity

But since when did the brain become so addicted to productivity that rest started feeling like guilt? HT Lifestyle reached out to Dr Aniruddha More, consultant neurologist at Jupital Hospital, Thane, who broke down the science behind the deep-seated guilt of not being productive.

This discomfort can surface during a free evening after a long day at work, or on a quiet weekend, when there is really nothing to do. Surprisingly, Dr More shared that even after a long, hectic, and tiring day, some people still yearn for more work.

The neurologist connected this to the brain's inherent reward loop. Describing how this works, he elaborated, "Every time a task is completed, the brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation and reward. When you cross off a to-do list, respond to emails, or achieve a goal, it creates a small sense of satisfaction." But when this becomes a habit, Dr More warned that the brain begins to ‘want’ this dopamine rush more frequently. Soon, constant productivity because of the brain's reward loop feels rewarding and pleasant.

The next step is even worse. The neurologist connected productivity to self-worth. This means that when people are at rest or relaxing, they may begin to view themselves in a poor light, as if their value depends only on how much they are able to do.

Relaxing makes you regret, as if you are undeserving of rest, or that you have not earned it enough and should still be doing something more productive.

The reason why this happens is that silence brings unresolved thoughts to the surface. "Silence creates space for unresolved thoughts, worries, or emotions. Hence, people always choose to stay busy to avoid feeling this discomfort,” Dr More reasoned.

This can be observed in the way people are unable to fully immerse themselves in their own holidays, take breaks, or sit through a movie without thinking about unfinished work.

You may become susceptible to several problems that the expert mentioned, including irritability, poor concentration, sleep disturbances, mental fatigue, and eventual burnout. The chase for productivity is deemed ironic by the doctor, as the chase actually makes you less productive, because you become mentally and physically fatigued.

“The brain was never designed to operate at maximum output all day,” he asserted, implying how you may be overriding the brain's natural need for rest.

The healthiest thing you need to look for is a balance. Again reiterating how imperative rest is, the neurologist asserted, “The ability to switch off, recharge, and be present is not laziness but a sign of neurological wellbeing.”

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition