We all know someone who loves to brag about how many books they've read or how many hours they've worked. While they might sound impressive, it's worth asking: what's their end goal? Are they achieving it?
These individuals often focus on inputs instead of meaningful outputs. Reading a lot or working long hours isn't bad, but they're just tools, not goals. Ideally, we read to gain wisdom, not to hit a target number of books for the year. We work to achieve something worthwhile, not just to look active on Microsoft Teams.
This mindset pops up everywhere because often the appearance of productivity is rewarded.
Gym-bros who obsess over the amount they can bench press sound stronger
LinkedIn users who add connections without building real relationships appear more connected
Researchers who chase citations rather than making real discoveries look more prestigious
You'll spot these people at parties, eager to tell you how busy they are. But, before you fall into this trap too, ask yourself: What's your end goal? Is it the right one?
