I’m starting a new series on my blog – “For the Record”, addressing the more sombre, often overlooked aspects of teenage life. Keep an eye out for more upcoming posts!

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What it Means

“Productivity culture” is the mindset that your value comes from how much you get done – how busy or “grind-focused” you are.

Adults often talk about it in the context of their careers, but us teenagers face it too – a topic often overlooked.

In teenage life (at least according to the limited years I’ve seen so far), you’re not just supposed to be studying anymore – you have to build a resumé before you’re even 18. Even hobbies have been optimized, with people painting for portfolios, singing for certificates, and volunteering for college applications.

The Role of Social Media

Productivity influencers, “StudyTok” or “That Girl” trends, and online aesthetics all blur the line between motivation and pressure. Even if you’re consciously trying to ignore these trends, it’s nearly impossible to block all the relentless pressure out.

There’s this constant fear – at least for me – that not achieving something measurable means “wasting time”.

The Mental Health Stigma in India

No matter how aware the rest of the world becomes, mental health remains a contentious topic in India. Issues like depression or anxiety are less accepted, especially among teenagers.

While the situation is improving with the dissemination of awareness regarding the topic, mental health is still a scorned issue in India – and it only exacerbates the issue of productivity culture.

We may not be able to change societal expectations overnight, but the tide may be turning after all…

The School System and Early Burnout

Job Listing: School-going Teenager, Full Time
Hours: 24/7 (sleep optional; breaks discouraged)
Salary: Validation only (not regular); happiness negotiable

Job Description:

• Must submit homework, assignments, and projects on time – creativity optional.
• Capable of multitasking: studying for exams, polishing your résumé, practicing an instrument, learning a language, and maintaining a cordial relationship with everyone simultaneously.
• Should maintain consistent grades while also participating in extracurriculars and volunteering — bonus points for leadership roles with certification
• Must demonstrate constant productivity; any downtime must be justified or publicly regretted

Qualifications:

• High tolerance for stress and existential anxiety
• Must be comfortable with mental health being optional or invisible
• Good sense of humor highly recommended – sarcasm is considered a survival skill.

Benefits:

• Bragging rights at college interviews.
• Occasional compliments from parents.
• The vague satisfaction of surviving the week without a breakdown.
• Life lessons in patience, resilience, and multitasking.

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We may not be able to escape the treadmill of productivity culture, but the trick is to keep walking at our own pace.

For the record: it’s okay to stress. It’s okay to pause. It’s just part of being a teenager!

Yours truly,
Divi