Book Review: Feel Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal
Let’s be honest for a second: how many productivity books have you read that leave you feeling more stressed than when you started? You know the ones—chock full of high-energy tips, life-hacks, and strategies that make you feel like you're falling behind just by reading them. Well, after reading The Feel-Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal, I can confidently say this is my favorite productivity book yet.
I’ve read a lot of self-help and productivity books over the years, and honestly, many of them have been great. But they often leave you with the feeling that you need to be doing more all the time. This book, though? It’s different. Ali brings a refreshing, sustainable approach to productivity—one that doesn’t just push you to get more done, but to actually enjoy the process.
What’s It All About?
In The Feel-Good Productivity, Ali introduces a concept that I think will resonate with a lot of people—productivity that feels good. It’s not about packing your day with endless tasks, but about getting the right things done in a way that leaves you feeling satisfied and energized, not drained.
Ali takes a balanced approach: instead of the traditional "hustle harder" mentality, he teaches you how to build systems and routines that work for you, without sacrificing your mental and physical well-being. This isn’t just about working harder—it's about working smarter and feeling good while doing it.
One of the reasons this book stands out to me is that it goes beyond just productivity tips. Ali taps into the why behind productivity systems, explaining why certain strategies work and how to make them work for you. You’re not just being told to "do more"—you’re being taught to make the process enjoyable, sustainable, and aligned with your values.
A big part of this is his emphasis on rest, mental health, and self-compassion. I loved how Ali broke down the science behind taking breaks, showing how essential it is for long-term productivity. If you're someone who feels guilty about resting (like I was), this book will completely shift your perspective.
The best part? Ali doesn’t just offer theory—he gives you actionable steps to implement today. Here are a few of the standout strategies that really spoke to me:
The “Daily Highlight” Strategy – This is such a simple concept, but it’s one of those "why didn’t I think of that?" ideas. Pick one thing each day to be your main focus—your “highlight.” This shift alone helps you prioritize what really matters, making your to-do list feel less overwhelming.
The Power of Routines – Ali breaks down how to create routines that don’t just fill up your day, but actually energize you. It’s about designing your morning and evening rituals to support the work you want to do, not to add more pressure.
Mastering Deep Work – A favorite of mine, Ali dives into how to achieve deep, uninterrupted focus during your most important work. In a world full of distractions, this is a game-changer.
Embracing Self-Compassion – This isn’t just about productivity—it’s about being kind to yourself. Ali reminds us that productivity isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress and balance.
Why This is My Favorite Book Yet
After reading countless productivity books, I’ve often found myself feeling more stressed than before. But The Feel-Good Productivity is different. Ali’s advice isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing better. It’s about creating systems that don’t just make you productive, but make you feel good while being productive. This is the kind of productivity that sticks—and doesn’t burn you out.
Ali has this rare ability to blend scientific insights, personal anecdotes, and practical advice in a way that feels relatable and inspiring. He’s not just telling you what works for him—he’s giving you tools to find what works for you.
If you’re tired of productivity books that make you feel like you’re not doing enough, then The Feel-Good Productivity is the book for you. Ali Abdaal offers a fresh perspective on productivity that combines practical strategies with a healthy mindset. Whether you want to optimize your day, tackle big projects, or simply find more joy in your work, this book will help you do that—all while feeling good along the way.
For me, this is the productivity book I’ve been waiting for. And I think it’s one you’ll love, too.
