JJFit Book Club: “Do Nothing” by Celeste Headlee

In a world that glorifies hustle and perpetual motion, Celeste Headlee’s Do Nothing: How to Break Away from Overworking, Overdoing, and Underliving offers a refreshing (and if you’re like me, mildly scary) counterpoint. The idea that we are so focused (too focused) on productivity that it’s actually... killing our productivity.

This book isn't just a critique of our overworked culture—it's a practical guide to reclaiming our time and well-being. Will it “totally revolutionize your life”? Probably not. But it will start you on a path toward thinking differently about your relationship with work and productivity while offering some valuable tips to try. More on that below.

Headlee, famous for her viral TED Talk from 2016, delves into the science and sociology of rest, presenting compelling evidence that our obsession with productivity is detrimental to our health and happiness. Drawing from a wealth of research and personal anecdotes, she argues that true fulfillment comes not from doing more, but from doing less—intentionally.

Headlee introduces the concept of "life-backs"—simple, science-backed strategies to help us slow down and reconnect with what truly matters. These include scheduling leisure, embracing boredom, and redefining success in terms of well-being rather than output. Some may work for you. Some may not. I’ll be the first to admit that the notion of being bored gives me anxiety—which is pretty strong proof that I need to try it more often!

Do Nothing is an insightful and important read for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of modern life. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most productive thing we can do is... nothing at all.

If you're interested in exploring more about the importance of rest and well-being, you might also enjoy other books I’ve posted about including You Are What You Click and Outlive.