From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Feel-Good Productivity Can Save Your Career

Real Strategies to Recharge, Align, and Thrive—Even in High-Pressure Jobs

Burnout is everywhere—especially in demanding careers where the pressure never seems to let up. But what if the real solution isn’t just working less, but working differently? Ali Abdaal’s Feel-Good Productivity offers a new way forward: by prioritizing what energizes you, you can break the cycle of exhaustion and rediscover meaning in your work.



The book identifies three types of burnout: overexertion (doing too much), depletion (not enough rest), and misalignment (work that doesn’t fit your values). Each requires a different approach. For overexertion, set boundaries and delegate. For depletion, schedule rest and recovery like any critical task. For misalignment, reflect on what truly matters and adjust your role or mindset.

But the real breakthrough comes from integrating the energizers—play, power, and people—into your daily life. Find ways to make work playful, take ownership of your process, and build supportive relationships. Even small acts of kindness or moments of curiosity can shift your entire day.



Abdaal’s approach is both practical and compassionate. He encourages treating every strategy as an experiment—try it, reflect, and adapt. Over time, micro-habits compound, and you’ll find yourself not just surviving, but thriving.

If you’re feeling burned out, this book is your guide to recovery and beyond. It’s time to move from burnout to breakthrough—and feel good while doing it.

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