After all, how do you be productive instead of busy?

Inattentiveness, boredom, lack of focus: These words are commonly used to describe the experience of people performing many irrelevant tasks. Tanque Aytekin, entrepreneur and founder of Jotform, discusses how the effect of urgency and the tendency to seek fast demands can harm us in terms of real productivity.

Read more: 100% Focus: A Harvard Neuroscientist Creates a Soundtrack for Focus

In the article “Automating Your Busy Tasks,” Aitken explores this dynamic based on her experiences and reflections. He highlights how the feeling of closing loops quickly is misleading and can lead to valuable time being lost. In their view, stress only increases the urgency effect, making it even more important to avoid low-impact activities when we are under stress.

The multitasking myth

The author also addresses the myth of multitasking, based on analysis by neuroscientist Daniel J. Levitin. Aytekin shares how he himself was adept at the practice but realized it undermined his effectiveness. Multitasking stimulates the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol and adrenaline, Levitin explains, causing mental confusion and difficulty concentrating.

Aytekin shares her view on how to become more strategic and creative over time. It stresses the importance of focusing on high-value activities that align with individual goals and objectives. In doing so, he was able to overcome challenges and build his company solidly.

The author encourages readers to identify and dedicate themselves to their high-value tasks, rather than getting lost in low-impact demands that erode their potential. He contends that automation can be a powerful tool for creating systems that shift focus and allow entrepreneurs to direct attention to what really matters.

Ultimately, Aytekin believes that building a lasting business is about achieving value and purpose. It encourages people to be aware of what they contribute and to invest their energy in what inspires them.