E314: Oliver Burkeman

Self-Help Expert: Why Productivity Is Ruining Lives | Oliver Burkeman (E314)

Oliver Burkeman is a renowned author and expert on the psychology of productivity. He is best known for his work exploring how modern life’s obsession with productivity often leaves us overwhelmed and unfulfilled.

In this episode, Oliver dives deep into the dangers of idolising productivity, discussing how society's relentless focus on getting more done can actually be ruining our lives. He explains how we’ve come to put productivity on a pedestal and the ways this mindset leads to burnout and dissatisfaction.

Oliver also shares practical insights with Jake and Damian on how to create healthy habits and get things done more meaningfully. He offers advice for parents and others juggling multiple roles on how to find moments of joy in everyday life instead of chasing after unattainable, Instagram-perfect moments.

This episode explores how we can shift our focus from profit-driven pursuits to activities that ignite our passion, encouraging us to embrace the journey itself rather than fixating solely on the outcome, as we navigate the complexities of modern life.

In his BBC Maestro course Time Management, Oliver Burkeman will teach you how to reframe your approach to time and embrace your human limitations. https://www.bbcmaestro.com/courses/ol...