All Episodes

October 9, 2024 54 mins

In a world obsessed with constant productivity, many of us feel pressured to do more and more, often at the expense of our well-being and personal fulfillment. This relentless pursuit can lead us to overlook the deeper, more meaningful aspects of how we spend our time.

This week, I’m thrilled to welcome productivity expert, author, and creator of the TimeCrafting system, Mike Vardy. Mike has spent years helping people shift their focus from traditional productivity to something deeper—what he calls “productiveness.” Through his work, he shows us how to approach time with greater intention, crafting a life that aligns with our values and energy cycles.

In this episode, Mike shares his journey from traditional concepts of productivity to his refined philosophy of time crafting. We explore how theming our days, reflecting on our habits, and embracing constraints can help us cultivate productiveness—a state that balances intention, quality, and flow.

Join us as we dive into the deeper layers of productiveness and learn how to move beyond conventional productivity systems to foster a more intentional, fulfilling way of working and living.

Topics Covered

  • The shift from productivity to productiveness and why it matters.
  • Mike’s TimeCrafting system and how it helps theme our days.
  • The importance of aligning work with life’s seasons and personal energy.
  • How constraints can foster creativity and intentionality.
  • The difference between rigid productivity and flexible productiveness.
  • The role of reflection in managing time and making better decisions.
  • The evolving relationship between time, work, and personal growth.
  • Strategies for building a healthier, more intentional relationship with time.
  • How to balance quality and quantity in our daily tasks.
  • Moving from task-based productivity to meaningful productiveness.

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Mike's Bio & Resources

Mike Vardy is a seasoned productivity expert, author, and coach dedicated to helping individuals and organizations achieve their fullest potential. With over 15 years of experience in the field of time management and productivity, he has developed unique insights and practical strategies that resonate with a wide audience. His approach is rooted in a deep understanding of the balance between quality and quantity, emphasizing the importance of living a purposeful and fulfilling life.


Explore Zen Habits


Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Stuff You Should Know
Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.