Ali Abdaal

Feel-Good Productivity

1. IDEA 1

   Feeling good drives productivity

   Abdaal, a doctor turned writer and video creator, argues that the secret to productivity is not discipline but feeling good. When work feels enjoyable, he suggests, we have more energy, and more energy leads to doing more and better work.

2. IDEA 2

   Bring play into your work

   The first energiser is play. Abdaal suggests approaching tasks with curiosity and fun, for example by treating them as adventures or games. A playful mindset reduces pressure and can make even dull tasks more enjoyable.

3. IDEA 3

   Feeling capable boosts energy

   The second energiser is power, meaning a sense of competence and control. Abdaal suggests building confidence by learning skills, noticing progress and reminding yourself that you can improve, since feeling capable makes work more energising.

All 8 ideas from Feel-Good Productivity →