Ultra-Productivity and Stress/Health

[Jes]

When I was a few years younger, I had so much passion, motivation, energy ... I was definitely that guy in the office who thought he could fix the world in a day. You know, the one who drinks too much coffee (but really doesn't drink any coffee). I still feel that way sometimes, but my older and wiser self knows it's better to be a bit reserved, and to think before acting on excitement.

Lately, though, I've got a bigger concern than just acting foolishly or in the moment: I wonder if that high-paced, high-energy, ultra-productive kind of working can take a toll on my health. Sure, it feels great in the moment, but I've been wondering if going a million-miles-a-minute can lead to something like a heart attack, or I don't know ... Some other health issue. It feels a bit unnatural. Not even a century ago, people moved a lot slower. Everything wasn't so "in demand," and just about everything else took forever and a day to do (snail mail vs. e-mail?). So, when I walk slowly, or go about my day with that "smell the roses" pace, I feel a bit more ... normal. I defintely don't feel like I could have a heart attack at any minute. Not to say that I do when I'm really productive, but I worry about it.

So what do you think? Is there any harm in being a high-energy person? Am I just losing it? Or am I wasting my youth by playing it slow?

I dunno. Just curious.

[ageofz]

Personally, I don't believe that there is any harm done when you are being efficient, upbeat, and productive and an accelerated pace. It is not like your heart is only good for so many beats and then you die. As long as you feel ok when you are doing your everyday activities, then I wouldn't worry about it at all. Think about all of the marathon runners, cyclist, swimmers exc. and how good their health is. Having a lot of energy won't effect your health negatively. I am pretty much like you say -- always in a rush to get things done, never enough time in the day to accomplish what I want to exc.

In my opinion, I wouldn't slow down just because you think you are harming your health. Keep being extremely productive because then you will free up time to accomplish more things in your life.

[silicon toad2000]

Ultra-efficiency is fine unless you need to put effort into maintaining it.
If you are just ultra efficient without any effort needed to maintain that level, then maybe that's just the level you work at.
Your body and mind will let you know if they are unhappy with things.

[Swede]

To quote Steve Siebold: The Middle Class slows down . . . the World Class calms down.

I do not find it efficient to strive for a higher and higher pace. I find that efficiency comes at the crossing point of concentration and a clear vision. Since I believe that stress can be harmful to one's health, I suggest this different approach.

[John Wesley]

I think you're fine unless you start to feel some ill effects. There is nothing harmful about being active, it's actually very healthy. The problem would only be caused by getting to stress or over exerting yourself, but from your description that doesn't seem to be an issue.