Does Working Faster Actually Lead to Better Results?
In a fast-paced world, we’re told speed is key. Recently, I have seen countless people – be it on X (formerly Twitter) or elsewhere – claim that working faster or making faster decisions is better (than doing all that slower).
I have been challenging this idea and wondering: Is working faster really the way to produce better results?
In fact, it’s a tough reality to accept, but efficiency doesn’t always equal value.
The Misleading Pull of Efficiency
Many professionals chase productivity, thinking that if they work faster, they’ll achieve more.
But efficiency isn’t enough.
You could find the most efficient way to dig a hole, but if no one needs that hole, the time and effort spent become meaningless. In professional terms, you might feel like you’re moving fast, but are you moving in the right direction?
Why Speed Can Lead Us Astray
I believe that the goal of work shouldn’t be to simply move at lightning speed; it’s to reach a meaningful, valuable outcome.
Common approaches to productivity often push us toward tools and systems that make us faster but don’t necessarily guide us toward the bigger picture. This pursuit of efficiency often leaves seasoned professionals feeling drained, as they’re busy but not productive in ways that count.
The Real Value of Working with Purpose
Many mistake actions for progress, but meaningful work requires purpose and focus. Here are some practical shifts that I apply and you might also want to consider:
1. Stop Equating Faster with Better
Speed may give you the impression of productivity, but it can dilute the quality of your work.
For instance, racing through tasks without understanding their impact could result in missed opportunities for insight. Instead, try setting clear intentions before you dive in. This simple habit can reshape your approach to work, helping you see where true value lies.
2. Evaluate the Need Before Acting
Sometimes, working on autopilot leads us to complete tasks without questioning their purpose. Avoid this by regularly assessing the real need for each task.
Ask yourself: Does this move me closer to my goals? or Who will benefit from this? This helps in making each action count, aligning efficiency with relevance.
3. Adopt a “Why First” Approach
Before you optimize any process, clarify why it’s important. Efficiency is powerful only when tied to purpose.
By focusing on the ‘why,’ you’ll eliminate unneeded steps, saving time while creating meaningful results. It’s a change in mindset that transforms work from a race to a thoughtful pursuit.
Reframe Success with Small, Purposeful Actions
True success comes from combining efficiency with purpose. Apply this by consistently challenging yourself to prioritize actions that contribute to long-term goals rather than quick wins. Efficiency tools are useful, but only when paired with a clear understanding of what truly matters.
Keep in mind that productivity isn’t about doing more in less time—it’s about doing what matters most.
So, before you pick up speed, ask yourself if the task is worth the run.