From The Green Notebook cover image

Oliver Burkeman- Time Management for Mortals

From The Green Notebook

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*Efficiency Improvements Simply Invite More Inputs Into the System *

Efficiency improvements in any system lead to unintended consequences. When you become adept at quickly answering emails, you actually receive more emails in return. Being efficient in handling emails does not make your life easier, but instead, harder as the volume of emails increases. In contrast, if you are not proficient at email, people tend to send fewer urgent emails or expect quick replies. This finding applies to various aspects of life, such as personal productivity and energy efficiency. Simply making a system more efficient without considering what to focus on attracts more inputs, resulting in a busier system. While efficiency is not entirely detrimental, it will not lead to the desire of feeling in control of one's time or being the master of time.

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