CAE Reading and Use of English Part 7
You are going to read an article about the rise of “slow productivity”. Six paragraphs have been removed from the article. Six paragraphs have been removed from the article. Choose from the paragraphs A – G the one which fits each gap (41-46). There is one extra paragraph which you do not need to use.
The Case for Slow Productivity in a Fast-Paced World
In an era defined by relentless notifications, overflowing inboxes, and the cult of overworking, a counter-movement is gaining momentum. Its name is “slow productivity,” and it’s not about doing less work, but about achieving more by focusing on less at once.
This stands in stark contrast to the prevailing culture of “performative busyness,” where being overwhelmed and doing (or pretending to do) everything at once is often worn as a badge of honour. The core philosophy of slow productivity is simple: true, meaningful progress comes from single-mindedness, not from frantic multitasking.
The origins of this mindset are often traced back to the slow food movement, which emerged as a protest against fast food. Similarly, slow productivity is a conscious pushback against the tyranny of hustle culture.
Furthermore, the tools designed to make us more efficient—instant messaging platforms, project management software—can often have the opposite effect. They fracture our attention, leaving us feeling drained yet unaccomplished at the end of the day.
So, what does slow productivity look like in practice? It begins with a radical shift in how we manage our attention. One of the key principles is to limit active tasks to a very small number, ideally focusing on one significant project at a time.
Another crucial tactic is to establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. This means having the discipline to stop working at a reasonable hour and not checking emails in the evening. This protected downtime is not lost; instead, it’s invested.
Of course, adopting this approach is not without its challenges. Many workplaces actively encourage or even demand constant connectivity. There can be a palpable fear that by not being immediately available, you will be perceived as less dedicated or ambitious.
Proponents argue that the benefits are undeniable. By working in this more intentional way, the quality of output improves significantly. You produce better work in less time because you are fully engaged with the task at hand.
Ultimately, slow productivity is all about long-term. It’s a long-game strategy for a fulfilling career and life, rejecting the burnout-inducing sprint for a purposeful marathon. It asks an awkwarkd, but necessary question of what we really are after: the appearance of being busy, or the reality of doing great work.
A This is because our brains need rest to consolidate learning and generate creative insights. Some of the best ideas occur when we are disconnected from our desks, allowing the subconscious mind to work on problems.
B For instance, a writer might dedicate her morning solely to writing a chapter, free from the distraction of emails or social media, and only handle administrative tasks in the afternoon. This ensures that her prime energy is spent on her most important work.
C It champions working at a natural, sustainable pace, prioritizing deep focus over shallow activity, and producing high-quality work that has lasting value. Or, to put it in a more colloquial manner, it helps to avoid spreading yourself thin.
D This involves a cultural shift within organizations. Forward-thinking companies are now implementing “no-meeting” days and discouraging after-hours communication to foster a more productive and healthier work environment.
E Its principles are increasingly being applied in education, where students are encouraged to delve deeply into subjects rather than simply memorising facts for exams, promoting a more profound and lasting understanding.
F This pressure is particularly intense in competitive fields like finance or law. However, the growing visibility of burnout is forcing both employees and employers to question the long-term viability of these demanding cultures.
G This constant state of being “always on” can lead to significant stress and burnout. The pressure to respond instantly to every message creates a reactive work style, where long-term goals are perpetually pushed back in favour of short-term demands.
For this task: Answers with explanations :: Vocabulary
