How to Untangle Your Worth from Productivity
You are more than your to-do list
Have you ever caught yourself saying something like...
“I didn’t get anything done today.”
“I feel so behind.”
“I need to be more productive.”
And suddenly, without even realizing it, you’re not just frustrated about your to-do list—you’re questioning your value.
We’ve been taught to believe that doing = being worthy.
That if you’re not busy, you’re falling behind.
That if you rest, slow down, or don’t check all the boxes, you’ve somehow failed.
But here’s your reminder this week, loud and clear:
You are not your productivity.
You are more than what you accomplish.
More than what you achieve.
More than how “together” your life looks.
Your worth was never meant to be measured by output.
The Root of the Problem
This message goes deep. We live in a world that rewards burnout. That glorifies being overbooked. That praises people who never stop moving.
But this constant drive to do more can quietly turn into a belief that you’re only valuable when you’re producing.
So when you pause, slow down, or choose rest—you might feel anxious. Unworthy. Behind.
It’s not your fault.
But it is something you can begin to untangle.
Here’s How to Begin Untangling Your Worth from What You Do
1. Notice the Narrative
Start paying attention to when you tie your value to your productivity. It might sound like:
“I didn’t get enough done today.”
“I wasted time.”
“I’ll rest when I earn it.”
The first step is simply noticing these thoughts without judging yourself for having them.
2. Shift Your Language
Instead of saying “I was lazy,” try:
“I listened to my body today.”
“I honored my capacity.”
“I needed stillness, and I chose it.”
Small shifts in language create massive shifts in how you feel.
3. Define Your Value Outside of Work
Ask yourself: Who am I beyond what I do?
You are a source of love, wisdom, creativity, compassion, humor, and light.
Not because of what you produce, but because of who you are.
Try This Gentle Reflection Practice
At the end of the day, instead of measuring success by your to-do list, ask yourself:
Did I treat myself with kindness?
Did I do one thing that supported my well-being?
Did I rest when I needed to?
Did I show up with love—for myself or someone else?
If the answer is yes to even one of those, that’s more than enough.
Your Glow-Up Reminder This Week:
This week, I want you to hold this truth close:
You don’t have to do more to be more.
You don’t have to earn rest.
You don’t have to prove your value.
You are worthy of care, peace, joy, and celebration—whether you crossed off ten tasks or just made it through the day.
So exhale.
You are doing better than you think.
And you are enough, exactly as you are.
Until next time,
Keep glowing, keep growing, and keep going.
— Jackie