We all know that person who is OH SO BUSY. They’re always making a show of staying late, answering emails at all hours of the night, trying desperately to prove they’re indispensable.
This kind of “performative productivity” is not only annoying to outsiders, it’s dangerous for the person engaging in it.
If you’ve ever fallen victim to this trap, it’s worth a few minutes of your time to evaluate your actions, understand what might be causing them, and explore the potentially counterproductive consequences.
When Working Hard Becomes a Performance
Performative productivity isn’t just about being busy. It’s about making sure others see you being busy. Over time, it can quietly chip away at your well-being and your credibility.
In many professional environments, perception can feel like everything. You may find yourself sending late-night emails, chiming in during every meeting, or reacting to messages instantly—not because it’s the most effective use of your time, but because it signals that you’re “on it.” You’re valuable. You belong.
That’s the trap of performative productivity. It’s not about truly managing your work in an effective or efficient way—it’s about making sure others believe you’re pulling your weight. For many professionals, especially those navigating complex organizational dynamics, this becomes a survival strategy: a way to justify their role, secure their reputation, and signal commitment.
Read More: https://eatyourcareer.com/2025/05/dangers-performative-productivity/