There is a common pattern in most people’s lives after entering the job market: study, find a job that matches your interests or training, receive a salary, pay the bills and repeat the cycle. This system, called “work-money-life”, is the way many generations have viewed the world of work. However, according to Tim Duggan, author of “Work Backwards: The Revolutionary Method to Work Smarter and Live Better”, this model is outdated and contributing to an overworked, unmotivated and anxious workforce.
The problem with the traditional model
Data from Gallup, which analyzed the workforce in 155 countries, cited by , shows that almost two-thirds of workers are emotionally disconnected from their jobs. In the USA, only half of workers say they are satisfied with their work. Additionally, a Microsoft study reveals that the average working day increased by 13% during the two years after the start of the pandemic, with many professionals working late into the night. Despite the advent of hybrid work, which has brought some flexibility, the workload persists, reflecting the emotional and physical exhaustion associated with the traditional model.
“Work Backwards”: Reversing the order
To combat this scenario, Tim Duggan proposes reversing the traditional pattern and reorganizing priorities. Instead of “work-money-life”, the focus becomes “life-money-work”. This method, called “work backwards”, involves three fundamental steps:
1. Definir um MAP (Meaning, Anchors, Priorities)
The first step is to draw up your MAP, which represents:
- Meaning: Understand what brings meaning to your life, both at work and outside of work.
- Anchors: Identify your three or four core values that guide your decisions.
- Priorities: Consciously decide where and how to invest your time.
2. Determine what is “enough”
The concept of “enough” is highly personal and varies from person to person. It consists of identifying how much money and success are needed to live comfortably and happily. Finding this balance can free you from unnecessary financial or professional goals, allowing you to focus on what really matters.
3. Choose the type of work that aligns with your life
Once you define what’s important to you and what’s “enough,” you can focus on the work that best fits your life. This includes exploring technology tools that can increase productivity and give you more time to focus on what you value.
A more balanced future
The “work backwards” method is not only a change in the way of thinking about work, but also an invitation to reflect on life choices. For Tim Duggan, this is a way to reduce work burnout and increase personal satisfaction. By focusing first on life, then on money and only then on work, it is possible to build a more balanced, intelligent and happy routine.
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