With a quick-paced society and an abundance of external stimuli at their disposal, Americans are constantly moving from one task to another. Children receive praise for completing tasks and achieving goals from a young age. The goal is to achieve maximum output per given unit, which can be hours, days, or even a lifetime. What this means for individuals is that whoever is achieving the most is the most successful, emphasizing quantity over quality. This idea has stimulated an underlying stigma against rest and leisure. To actively seek out rest has become increasingly synonymous with laziness. This correlation, which is often mistaken, presents a dilemma: the American population’s growing fear of boredom as they become disconnected, unfulfilled, and experience burnout. All of these symptoms are a byproduct of capitalist values.
Capitalism is an economic system based on private ownership of the means of production and the creation of goods and services for profit. This system aims to maximize profits and increase efficiency, often producing more goods or providing more services in less time. The emphasis on the value of productivity in American culture can be attributed to the rise of capitalism at the start of the Industrial Revolution. As capitalism grew in prevalence, productivity became a key metric for measuring success. This emphasis on productivity was fueled by the notion that increased efficiency would lead to greater profits. This created a culture prioritizing hard work and productivity over other values, such as leisure time or rest. This work ethic is deeply rooted and often celebrated within American culture, emphasizing the positive relationship between hard work and success.
Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram have glamorized an achievement-oriented lifestyle, creating false ideas of a productive routine. Many influencers and other users are partaking in trends featuring their daily routines. These routines are often highly unachievable and romanticized through aesthetic supplements such as the sparkle filter. One trend which recently went viral on TikTok was based on people trying to replicate Benjamin Franklin’s daily routines, which were recorded in his diaries. This routine was defined by non-stop movement and planning down to the minute. Although many recognize the humor in this trend, its origins still reflect the desire for success, and the American ideals carried out through constant productivity. The comparative nature of social media leads ordinary people to attempt to replicate the behaviors of those they see as successful, which is rooted in capitalism from an American point of view, and comes down to fame and fortune.
Too much focus on productivity can be detrimental to our mental health. American values of productivity create a negative stigma surrounding downtime. This fear and discomfort surrounding boredom is perpetuated by capitalism, which places those who can accomplish the most on a pedestal. This standard has left many Americans experiencing burnout. A study by the University of York found that individuals who regularly engage in activities that induce boredom are likelier to experience positive emotions and a greater sense of well-being. Both of these studies emphasize the importance of prioritizing time for leisure and relaxation over the external pressures of constant achievement. This is easier said than done; however, it can be made possible through planning, prioritizing tasks, and self-awareness.
While productivity can be essential for success, it is crucial to recognize the negative impact that this growing culture can have on our mental health, work-life balance, and creativity. Instead of placing so much value on productivity and achievement, we should strive for a healthy balance of work and rest and recognize the importance of downtime and creativity. By prioritizing consciously incorporating it into our daily routines, we can achieve a healthier and more sustainable balance between work and leisure.