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Beyond the To-Do List: Redefining Productivity with Purpose and Empathy

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Are you ready to unlock your full potential and maximize your productivity? On the Productivity Smarts podcast, hosted by Gerald J. Leonard, we explore stories, tips, and strategies that redefine what it means to be productive. In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of John Suzuki, author of American Grit and host of the Finding Better podcast. Together, we unpack insights on hard work, resilience, empathy, and a unique perspective on leadership that will leave you thinking about productivity in a new light.

The True Essence of Productivity: It’s More than a Checklist

What does productivity mean to you? For many, it’s about checking tasks off a list, or getting through as much as possible in a day. But what if true productivity goes beyond that? John Suzuki argues that productivity is not just a function of task completion—it’s about creating a life of purpose and meaning.

“Management is by brain; leadership is by heart.” — John Suzuki

John’s journey was shaped by his father, a Japanese American who served in World War II despite the discrimination Japanese Americans faced. His father’s sense of duty and hard work left a lasting impression, instilling in John the belief that productivity is about crafting a life that you can look back on with pride and fulfillment.

What Does Hard Work Really Look Like?

In today’s world, the concept of “hard work” sometimes feels taboo. We’re often told to work smarter, not harder. But as John points out, “The harder I work, the more I learn.” Hard work, in his view, isn’t about exhausting yourself—it’s about immersing yourself in what you do, putting in the effort to understand the nuances, and honing your skills through persistence.

Ask yourself: Are you avoiding hard work because it’s uncomfortable? Or are you willing to put in the effort to master your craft? For project and program managers, hard work might mean going the extra mile to understand team dynamics, align with organizational goals, or navigate complex projects. It’s not about hours worked but about dedication to a purpose larger than oneself.

Why Begin with Empathy in Leadership?

What’s the biggest misunderstanding about productivity? According to John, people often think it’s about tools, strategies, or processes. While these play a role, they’re not the foundation. Productivity is built on people. “You can create productivity with a whip,” he says, “or you can create productivity by inspiring people.” Empathy is at the heart of this inspiration.

Imagine being a project manager tasked with delivering on tight deadlines while maintaining a positive team culture. The instinct might be to micromanage, yet a better approach could be leading with empathy—understanding the unique challenges your team faces and motivating them through genuine connection and support. Empathy doesn’t just make you a better leader; it can turn your team into a powerhouse of engaged, productive individuals.

Overcoming Challenges: The Role of Resilience

Life, as John reminds us, is full of setbacks. From family tragedies to professional disappointments, we all face obstacles that test our resilience. But here’s where John’s insights resonate deeply: resilience isn’t just bouncing back; it’s about maintaining your drive and vision, even when things get tough.

As project managers, resilience means pushing through when projects veer off course, learning from failures, and cultivating a mindset that sees obstacles as opportunities. John’s own story, as well as the story of his father’s resilience, reminds us that it’s not about avoiding challenges but embracing them as part of our growth journey.

Building a Culture of Hard Work and Empathy: A Balancing Act

For John, productivity is about more than just working hard; it’s about making that hard work meaningful. This means setting goals, aligning with your core values, and cultivating a disciplined approach. But it also requires caring for the people around you—understanding their aspirations, fears, and unique contributions. As project managers overseeing extensive portfolios, integrating empathy with hard work creates a more supportive and productive environment for the entire team.

Consider: Are you leading your team with heart, or are you too focused on metrics? True productivity stems from a balanced approach, where goals align with values and the journey is just as important as the outcome.

Real-Life Example: A Lesson from the Japanese American Experience

John’s book American Grit tells the remarkable story of Japanese Americans who volunteered to serve in World War II, even as their families were interned in camps. This act of resilience, patriotism, and purpose underlines a key lesson: in times of hardship, choosing to act with integrity and focus can turn adversity into legacy.

In your own life, consider: How can resilience and purpose drive your productivity? If project deadlines feel like a weight, or if balancing work-life feels impossible, remember that purpose can lift you up. Focusing on what truly matters can transform challenges into stepping stones.

Goal Setting: The Key to Sustained Productivity

John credits much of his success to his disciplined approach to goal setting. There’s a “magic” to writing goals down, he says. When goals are clear, they become the compass that guides your actions. For project managers juggling multiple priorities, setting clear, achievable goals for yourself and your team can be the difference between constant firefighting and meaningful progress.

Call to Action: Redefine Your Productivity Journey

Are you ready to redefine productivity in your life? Here are actionable steps inspired by John Suzuki’s journey:

1. Embrace Hard Work with Purpose: Dive into your tasks, not to check them off but to learn and grow. Ask yourself, “How can I make this meaningful?”

2. Lead with Empathy: See your team not just as resources but as people with individual dreams, challenges, and talents. How can you inspire them to give their best?

3. Cultivate Resilience: When challenges arise, don’t retreat. Think of each obstacle as an opportunity to build resilience and grow stronger.

4. Set Clear Goals: Write down your goals and align them with your values. Goals aren’t just for accountability; they’re for clarity and motivation.

5. Support a Cause: Consider how your productivity can contribute to something larger. Inspired by Gerald’s support for Kiva, ask how your work can impact your community or support a cause you care about.

Productivity isn’t just about output; it’s about creating a life of purpose, empathy, and resilience. Embrace these principles, and watch your productivity transform—not only in work but in every area of life. Join us on the Productivity Smarts podcast every week, and take the first step toward a life driven by purpose, resilience, and true productivity.

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