Perky would never practice or advocate the concept of stealing and its implications, or indeed any other form of criminality. But is ‘stealing’ habits from productive people really to be condemned?
It might be argued that when habits are ‘borrowed’ from productive people, it is not a case of taking their property. It is rather a process of learning from their methods, routines, and mindsets. Maybe it is like observing a skilled chef and adopting some of their techniques. It is not a case of stealing their recipes, but rather one of using what works to improve oneself.
In fact, many productivity strategies exist precisely because people have shared them. Books, blogs, videos, and mentorship all thrive on this kind of knowledge transfer. It only becomes ethically problematic if someone else’s personal work or ideas are claimed by another person as their own, without acknowledgment.
Productive people often have habits that make their days run smoothly, and these are usually worth borrowing (not stealing, insists Perky). One key area is how they manage their time. They tend to plan ahead, break tasks into smaller, achievable steps, and dedicate blocks of time to focused work. Observing someone who seems consistently on top of their responsibilities, rarely overwhelmed, and able to meet deadlines is usually a sign of effective time-management habits that can be adapted to the lives of others.
Another worthy habit of productive people involves starting days with energising rituals, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or reading, and their day is often ended by reflecting or planning for tomorrow. Borrowing these habits does not mean copying every detail but integrating aspects that might suit the rhythm of others.
Highly productive people constantly seek knowledge through reading, listening to educational content, seeking feedback, or reflecting on their experiences. This can be recognised in their conversations, or the references they make to books, podcasts, mentors, or courses.
Habits around health and energy are worth borrowing, as they often underpin all other productive habits. Those who maintain regular exercise, prioritise sleep, stay hydrated, and manage stress tend to sustain high performance over time.
Networking and collaboration are subtle but powerful habits, not to be overlooked. Productive people tend to maintain relationships, seek mentorship, and share value with others rather than hoard knowledge. This can be recognised in their interactions, their willingness to ask questions, and how they acknowledge the contributions of others. Emulating this habit might not be straightforward but still worthy of ‘stealing’.
Perky now understands that productive habits can be borrowed without feeling that someone else is being copied. The key is to understand why the habits work, and that they can be adapted to individual personalities and schedules.
It is apparent that focus and hard work are habits that truly set productive people apart. Their habits can be adopted, but the ‘spirit’ of it is more about learning and adapting than theft. It is smart, not shady.