Motion versus Action

Are you busy? Sure. But are you productive?

When asked if they are busy, most professionals would answer with a resounding “YES.” I certainly would. I find it trickier to answer the question “Are you being productive?”.

While reading James Clear’s excellent book Atomic Habits, I found a helpful insight that he shared. It’s the difference between motion and action.

Clear suggests that we can be more productive by learning this distinction. Motion will certainly keep you busy, but it does not lead to a measurable result. Only actions lead to outcomes. Examples of motion: Planning, studying and strategizing. Meeting and talking might also fall into the motion category.

Motion is certainly important. You will gain confidence by planning, learning, and making other preparations. What is helping me become more productive is recognizing those preliminary steps as motion, not action. I know that my day is productive when I generate results and have something to show for my effort.

Notice what’s keeping you busy: Are you in motion, or taking action? For more on this topic read the excerpt from Clear’s book on his website. ◼︎