Modern Wisdom

#1061 - Oliver Burkeman - Why You Can’t Stop Your Productivity Addiction

February 19, 2026·1h 32m·7-min readsoloself improvement
Podzilla Summary (7 min)
TLDR
It is not only possible but often more effective to be highly accomplished and relaxed simultaneously; the pursuit of excellence does not require suffering, and in fact, letting go of control can enhance performance and fulfillment.


THESIS

The core argument is that the cultural myt

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Guest

O

Oliver Burkeman

solo on Modern Wisdom

Mentions

Books, people, and resources mentioned in this episode.

People

Chris WillxKrishnamurtiViktor FranklElizabeth GilbertJames Hollis

Books

Meditations for Mortalsby Oliver Burkeman4,000 Weeksby Oliver Burkeman

Topics

ExistentialismHabitsMental HealthMindfulnessPhilosophyProductivitySelf ImprovementTime Management

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