Timeline of personal productivity

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This is a timeline of personal productivity, which outlines a historical progression of key events related to productivity over the years. The timeline seeks to capture significant developments and innovations in different periods, highlighting their impact on personal and societal productivity. Notable publications are also included.


Sample questions

The following are some interesting questions that can be answered by reading this timeline:

  • What key artifacts in history have impacted the way humans approach personal productivity?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Artifact introduction".
    • You will see key artifacts, tools, and inventions that have shaped productivity throughout history. The timeline offers insights into how these innovations have transformed productivity and human organization across different eras.
  • What are some influential books that have shaped approaches to personal productivity?
    • Sort the full timeline by "Event type" and look for the group of rows with value "Literature".
    • You will see a chronological list of influential books, a brief description of their core ideas, their contributions to productivity strategies, and its broader impact on personal and professional development.

Big picture

Time period Development summary More details
Ancient times – 18th century Pre-industrial era Productivity revolves around manual labor and natural cycles, as societies are predominantly agrarian or craft-based. Early tools like sundials[1], water clocks[2], and calendars help structure daily activities, especially for farming and religious practices. Philosophical teachings from figures like Aristotle and Confucius emphasize virtues such as discipline[3][4], time management[5], and the pursuit of excellence.[6] Medieval guilds introduce task specialization and apprenticeships, fostering efficiency in trades and crafts.[7] Time is not yet perceived as a commodity, and work rhythms are dictated more by environmental factors than by rigid schedules or standardized processes.
18th – Early 20th Century Industrial Age The Industrial Revolution marks a shift to factory-based work, where machines dictate productivity, and rigid schedules become the norm. The invention of mechanical clocks and the enforcement of work hours formalize time as a resource to be managed. Efficiency becomes central, exemplified by Frederick Taylor's scientific management principles, which break tasks into repeatable, optimized steps. Cultural ideals such as the Protestant work ethic reinforces the value of diligence and frugality.[8] Standardization of processes and mass production define this period, as individuals adapt to the growing influence of mechanization and strict workplace hierarchies.
Mid-20th century – late 20th century Knowledge economy As economies transition to knowledge-based industries, productivity shifts from physical labor to intellectual output.[9] The emergence of tools like typewriters, calculators, and computers revolutionize how people manage tasks. Productivity experts like Peter Drucker and Stephen Covey introduce influential frameworks, emphasizing systems thinking, personal responsibility, and effective goal-setting. Self-help culture flourish, encouraging individuals to take charge of their time and optimize personal effectiveness. The workplace evolves to prioritize creativity and problem-solving over repetitive tasks, reflecting a growing emphasis on intellectual contributions as key drivers of progress in increasingly complex industries.
21st century – present The Digital and networked Age The digital era transforms productivity through smartphones, apps, and cloud-based collaboration tools, enabling real-time task management and automation. Behavioral insights from psychology, such as mindfulness and strategies to combat procrastination, become integral to maintaining focus. Wearables and AI-driven platforms offer data-driven insights for habit tracking and optimization. Remote work and flexible schedules redefined work-life balance, shifting the focus to outcomes rather than hours worked. Emerging ideas like “deep work” and shorter workweeks reflect a growing interest in sustainable productivity, blending technological innovation with a desire for personal and professional fulfillment.

Full timeline

Year Event type Details Location
8000 BC Artifact introduction The world's oldest known calendar" is thought to be a Mesolithic configuration in Warren Field, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This arrangement, consisting of twelve pits and an arc, is identified as a lunar calendar.[10] United Kingdom
1300 BC – 1201 BC Artifact introduction The oldest known boxwood writing tablet with an ivory hinge is one that would be found among artifacts retrieved from the Uluburun Shipwreck, dating back to the 14th century BC near Kaş, Turkey.[11] Turkey
c. 200 BC Artifact introduction The Antikythera mechanism is created as an early mechanical computer that employs intricate gears to predict and display the positions of celestial bodies on specific dates. Discovered in a shipwreck off the Greek island of Antikythera, it demonstrates remarkable technological sophistication for its time, with functions including tracking lunar phases, eclipses, and possibly planetary movements.[12] Greece
1440 Artifact introduction German inventor Johannes Gutenberg creates the printing press. This hand-cranked press utilizes movable metal type with raised surfaces, rolling ink over them and pressing onto a sheet of paper. This invention facilitates mass production of books and improves access to information.[13] Germany (Holy Roman Empire)
1564 Artifact introduction A large graphite deposit is discovered in Borrowdale, England, leading to the introduction of graphite for writing and replacing lead as a writing material.[14] United Kingdom
1623 Artifact introduction German professor Wilhelm Schickard designs the “calculating clock,” regarded as the first mechanical calculating machine. The device combines two main sections: a lower arithmetic unit for addition and subtraction, and an upper set of cylinders for multiplication and division, inspired by Napier’s bones. Input is made using six rotating knobs that allow up to six-digit multiplicands, while vertically mounted dials register values for arithmetic operations. Numerals are displayed through counter wheels, making the clock an ingenious precursor to later calculating devices and a milestone in mechanical computation.[15] Germany
1642–1644 Artifact introduction French mathematician and philosopher Blaise Pascal invents the Pascaline, recognized as the world’s first mechanical calculator. Created to help his father in tax collection, the device uses rotating dials to carry out addition and subtraction. Its groundbreaking carry mechanism enables multi-digit calculations, marking a major technological step forward. However, despite its ingenuity, the Pascaline’s high cost and complexity prevents it from achieving broad practical use. France
1666 Artifact introduction English inventor Samuel Morland introduces his cogged disc addition device, a notable early calculating aid. Alongside pioneers such as Schickard, Pascal, and Leibniz, Morland contributes to the development of mechanical computation in the seventeenth century. His machine features cogged discs designed to simplify addition, representing an inventive yet practical approach to calculation. Encased in leather, the device is both functional and portable.[15] United Kingdom
1776 Concept development Adam Smith's Wealth of Nations introduces the concept of productive and unproductive labor.[16] While primarily pertaining to economic productivity at the societal level, the concept is indirectly related to personal productivity, as individuals can draw insights from Smith's distinction by focusing on tasks and activities that contribute meaningfully to their goals, whether personal or professional. United Kingdom
1791 American polymath Benjamin Franklin creates the earliest known to-do list, emphasizing the concept of daily productivity and contributing something valuable to society each day.[17][16][18] United States
1793 Artifact introduction American inventor Eli Whitney patents the cotton gin, a machine that would revolutionize cotton production by efficiently extracting seeds from cotton fibers. This innovation reduces the labor required for cotton processing, leading to increased profits for planters. The higher profits incentivize planters to expand their crops, creating a demand for additional labor.[18][16] United States
1850 Artifact introduction Day planners become popular, emphasizing planning's role in increasing productivity during the Industrial Revolution.[16]
1874 Artifact introduction The first commercial typewriters are introduced, playing a crucial role in enhancing personal productivity. Before typewriters, written communication was primarily done by hand, which could be time-consuming and prone to errors. The typewriter would revolutionize the way people create documents by providing a more efficient and legible method of writing.[19]
1886 German inventor Friedrich Soennecken patents the Papierlocher für Sammelmappen, an early version of the hole punch. This device allows users to create multiple holes in paper for easy filing and organization. The hole punch would become a staple in offices worldwide, significantly improving efficiency in document management. By enabling the systematic storage of papers in binders, it streamlines administrative work and reduced clutter. Over time, the design would evolved, but its core function would remain unchanged, making it an essential office tool.[20] Germany
Early 1900s Innovation Henry Ford's introduction of the moving assembly line reduces car assembly time, making automobiles more affordable and emphasizing the role of efficiency in manufacturing.[18] United States
1911 Literature Frederick Winslow Taylor publishes The Principles of Scientific Management, which introduces "Taylorism," a system focused on improving industrial efficiency through scientific work analysis. Taylor emphasizes optimizing tasks, scientifically selecting and training workers, and clearly dividing responsibilities between management and labor. He promotes standardized tools, detailed instructions, and incentive-based pay to boost productivity. Taylor’s principles would significantly influence 20th-century management, shaping practices like task specialization, assembly line production, and job analysis. Although later criticized for potentially dehumanizing work, Taylor’s ideas would play a key role in the development of modern organizational and management theory.[21][22] United States
1930 American 3M engineer Richard Gurley Drew develops the first transparent sticky tape, branded as Scotch, in St. Paul, Minnesota. Initially created using cellophane, the tape revolutionizes personal productivity by providing a simple, effective solution for repairing torn paper, sealing packages, and a variety of other tasks. Its transparency and ease of use makes it an essential tool in households, schools, and offices. Over time, the invention would expand its applications, offering a fast, clean alternative to more time-consuming methods like gluing or stitching, enhancing efficiency in both personal and industrial settings.[23][24] United States
1940 Innovation Richard and Maurice McDonald apply Henry Ford's principles to fast food, introducing the “Speedee Service System” and reflecting societal trends in maximizing time and productivity.[18][25][26] United States
1941 IBM introduces the Electromatic Model 04 electric typewriter, featuring proportional spacing. This innovation assigns varied spacing to characters, unlike traditional typewriters with uniform spacing, allowing the Type 04 to replicate the appearance of a printed page. Combined with a new typewriter ribbon that produces sharper, clearer text, the typewriter significantly improves the quality of written documents. This development enhances productivity by making typing faster, more efficient, and aesthetically pleasing, making it easier for individuals in offices, businesses, and personal settings to produce professional-quality work, and marking a significant step toward modern word processing technology.[27] United States
1943 Hungarian refugees László and Georg Bíró, living in Argentina, patent the ballpoint pen, transforming personal productivity. Unlike fountain pens, which smudge and require frequent refilling, the Bíró design uses a rotating ball bearing to distribute quick-drying ink evenly and prevent leaks. This innovation makes writing faster, cleaner, and portable under any conditions, including vertical or overhead surfaces. Initially adopted by military forces during World War II, the ballpoint pen quickly becomes a commercial success, streamlining everyday tasks. Its durability and convenience revolutionizes note-taking, correspondence, and record-keeping, cementing its role as an essential tool for work and study.[28] Argentina
1946 Raytheon engineer Percy Spencer pioneers the microwave oven by filing patents for using microwaves to cook food. The first commercial Radarange models, introduced that year, are large, expensive, and primarily used in restaurants and airplanes. These early ovens rely on powerful magnetron tubes requiring water cooling. Despite initial limitations, the microwave oven revolutionizes personal productivity by drastically reducing cooking and reheating times, allowing individuals to prepare meals quickly with minimal effort. This efficiency freeds up time for work and leisure, especially for busy professionals and families. As technology improves, microwaves would become affordable household staples, transforming modern kitchens and daily routines by enabling fast, convenient meal preparation.[29] United States
Late 1940s Innovation The Kanban method originates in Toyota's production system.[30] It would gain popularity in the software development world in the 2000s. Japan
1949 Haloid Photographic Company (later known as Xerox Corporation) releases the first commercial product utilizing Carlson's electrophotography process: the Xerox Model A Copier, nicknamed "The Ox Box." The prototype is large, comprising four boxes and occupying the space of a modern compact automobile. Despite its size, the copier revolutionizes personal and office productivity by allowing users to make quick, high-quality copies of documents. This innovation greatly improves efficiency in businesses, education, and administration by reducing time and effort spent on manual copying. The Xerox copier lays the foundation for future advancements in photocopying and office automation, marking a significant leap forward in workplace technology.[31] United States
1950 The "5S" methodology is developed in Japan to improve work efficiency, effectiveness, and safety. It focuses on reducing non-value-adding time while enhancing productivity and quality. The method is based on five pillars: Seiri (Sort), Seiton (Set in order), Seiso (Shine), Seiketsu (Standardize), and Shitsuke (Sustain). Initially known as the Toyota Production System (TPS), it was created by Taiichi Ohno and Eiji Toyoda with Japanese industrial engineers. After improvements, Sakichi Toyoda, his son Kiichiro, and Taiichi Ohno redesign the system and renamed it "5S" to better reflect its focus.[32] Japan
1954 Peter Drucker introduces the MBO model in his book The Practice of Management, which emphasizes the use of reporting tools and performance reviews to track team member performance. MBO relies on objective standards to assess both team member and company performance.[33]
1955 Swiss engineer Georges de Mestral introduces hook-and-loop fastener Velcro, which would revolutionize personal productivity and everyday life by providing a simple, durable, and easy-to-use fastener. Velcro would become essential in various industries, from clothing to aerospace, streamlining tasks that require secure and organized fastening.[34] Switzerland
1950s Innovation The Eisenhower Matrix, also known as the Urgent-Important Matrix or Time Management Matrix, is introduced. It is a renowned productivity tool derived from President Dwight Eisenhower strategic approach as a 5-star general during World War II. The matrix classifies tasks into four quadrants based on urgency and importance. President Eisenhower's efficient leadership during his two-term presidency exemplified effective prioritization, resulting in significant accomplishments such as the Interstate Highway System, NASA's creation, civil rights legislation, and strategic management of the Cold War. Popularized by self-help author Stephen Covey, the matrix would remain a valuable tool for individuals seeking to enhance time management and task prioritization skills.[35] United States
1968 3M scientist Spencer Silver accidentally invents a new adhesive with unusual properties: it sticks lightly, can be removed, and reused without leaving residue. Although weaker than the strong glue he intends to create, Silver recognizes its potential. Years later, his colleague Art Fry applies the adhesive to paper to solve his problem of keeping bookmarks in place while singing in his church choir. Their collaboration leads to the creation of the Post-it Note, which would grow into a global office staple used in over 150 countries.[36] United States
1974 Concept development Mark Snyder publishes study titled Self-monitoring of Expressive Behavior, in which he introduces a social psychological concept called self-monitoring, involving self-observation and self-control guided by situational cues for social appropriateness. The study develops a reliable self-report measure, the Self-Monitoring Scale (SM), to assess individual differences in self-monitoring.[37][38] United States
1974 The Altair 8800 is developed by Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems (MITS) and is regarded by many as the first personal computer (PC). While the Altair gained popularity among computer hobbyists, its commercial appeal was limited.
Altair 8800 Computer
1981 IBM introduces the IBM Personal Computer (PC), marking a pivotal moment in personal computing. The IBM PC is significantly faster, has greater memory capacity, and becomes widely popular due to its compatibility with software like the 1-2-3 spreadsheet. It sets industry standards for microprocessors and operating systems, impacting personal productivity by providing businesses and individuals with more powerful, accessible computing tools. This development enables faster data processing, improved office tasks, and the growth of software applications. The IBM PC helps lay the foundation for widespread computer adoption, transforming workflows and fostering the personal computing revolution.[39] United States
Late 1980s Time management The Pomodoro Technique is developed by Francesco Cirillo.[40] It is a time management method designed to enhance focus during study sessions. Users choose a singular task, set a timer for 25-30 minutes, and work without interruption until the timer expires. Subsequently, a 5-minute break is taken for activities such as walking or relaxation. This cycle is repeated for four rounds, each consisting of focused work and short breaks. Following the fourth round, a more extended break of 20-30 minutes is advised. This structured approach aims to improve concentration, minimize distractions, and optimize productivity during study or work endeavors.[41] Italy
1989 Background English computer scientist Tim Berners Lee at the CERN invents the World Wide Web, which significantly improves productivity by providing easy access to information, communication tools, and collaborative platforms.[18][42][43] Switzerland
1989 Literature American author Stephen Covey publishes The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.[44] Highly successful, this book provides advice on personal development, teamwork, self-renewal, mutual benefit, proactivity, and strategies for achieving private and public victories.[45] United States
1990 Literature Dr Edwin Locke and Dr Gary Latham publish A Theory of Goal Setting & Task Performance, which emphasizes the importance of establishing specific and challenging goals. The book outlines five additional characteristics crucial for successful goal setting. Their research highlights the motivational power of clear objectives and provides insights into optimizing task performance through effective goal-setting strategies.[44]
1992–1994 Artifact introduction IBM creates its first smartphone, the IBM Simon, which releases for purchase in 1994.[18] Smartphones play a significant role in personal productivity by providing a multifunctional tool that assists individuals in managing various aspects of their lives. United States
1993 Artifact introduction American multinational technology company Apple Inc. ships the first devices of the Newton, its personal digital assistant (PDA). The Newton, equipped with a stylus and running Newton OS, is the first PDA to feature handwriting recognition. It allows users to take notes, store contacts, manage calendars, send faxes, and more. The introduction of the Newton marks a significant milestone in Apple's attempt to innovate in the handheld device market.[46] United States
1994 Literature Stephen Covey publishes First Things First. United States
1995 (August 24) Software Microsoft releases Windows 95, transforming personal computing and setting the stage for the company’s future dominance. The operating system introduces the Start menu and taskbar, making it far easier for users to navigate applications and manage multitasking. Windows 95 also debutes features like user profiles and the “Briefcase” for file syncing—an early precursor to today’s cloud storage.[47] United States
1997 (March 10) Artifact/Tool Palm Inc. (then part of U.S. Robotics) launches the PalmPilot Personal and Professional, second-generation PDAs running Palm OS 2.0. Featuring a Motorola 16 MHz processor, monochrome touchscreen, Graffiti input, and up to 1 MB of memory, they offer portable digital organization. Prices range from $299 to $399, with upgrade kits for earlier Pilot models. Accessories include a 14.4 kbit/s modem. Hugely successful, PalmPilot would sell over a million units by 1998, solidifying Palm as a PDA market leader before being succeeded by the Palm III in 1998.[48][49][50] United States
PalmPilot organiser
1997 (January 16) Software Microsoft Outlook is released, becoming a popular tool for email management, calendars, and tasks.[51] Outlook is a comprehensive communication tool that integrates email, scheduling, contact management, task organization, and document access. It introduces features such as AutoPreview, which displays the first three lines of each email for efficient prioritization, and Message Flags, which enable users to mark emails for follow-up actions. The Outlook Journal allows users to locate documents based on their creation date, rather than file name or location. Integrated with Office 97, Outlook includes WordMail 97, mail merge with Outlook Contacts, AutoJournal for Office documents, and task creation from Office applications. It supports Internet email, Microsoft Exchange Server, Microsoft Mail Server, and MSN.[52] United States
1997 Innovation The 80/20 Principle, named after economist Vilfredo Pareto, gains significant prominence in the business world. This principle posits that roughly 80% of outcomes result from 20% of inputs or efforts. The concept becomes widely known through the book The 80/20 Principle authored by Richard Koch, whose work offers insights on how this principle could be applied to improve efficiency and effectiveness in various aspects of life and business. The book emphasizes the importance of identifying and focusing on the critical few factors that contribute the most to desired outcomes, rather than dispersing efforts evenly across all factors.[53] Worldwide
2001 Innovation Getting Things Done (GTD) is introduced by David Allen in his book Getting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity.[54] United States
2001 Smartphones are integrated with the internet, allowing users to access online services and information directly from their mobile devices.[18]
2003 Literature Canadian-American motivational public speaker and self-development author Brian Tracy publishes Goals!, which draws on over 20 years of experience and 40 years of research to offer a practical strategy for setting and achieving goals. Tracy outlines seven key elements of goal-setting and 12 steps to accomplish goals of any size. The book emphasizes determining strengths, values, and true goals, building self-esteem, and overcoming obstacles. Tracy provides a "Mental Fitness" program for character development, guiding readers to become individuals capable of achieving any goal. The book uses simple language, real-life examples, and would be utilized by over 1 million people.[44] United States
2004 (April 1) Google introduces Gmail, its free webmail service. Gmail offers an unprecedented 1GB of storage—over 100 times more than Yahoo! or Hotmail—plus advanced search, conversation threading, and strong spam filters. Inspired by user frustration with limited inbox space, Gmail marks Google’s major move into email.[55] Gmail would revolutionize email through powerful search and conversation threading. Its ad-funded model would reshape webmail, spurring rivals to expand storage. Gmail’s success would cement Google’s ecosystem, pioneering cloud-based productivity and influencing modern communication habits worldwide.[56][57][58] United States
2004 Literature Stephen Covey publishes The 8th Habit. United States
2006 (April 18) Software/Service Google releases Google Calendar, a sleek, web-based scheduling tool. The service lets users create and edit events, set reminders, add locations, and share invitations. It integrates with Gmail, automatically adding events from emails, and incorporates features like Smart Suggestions and Goals. Reviews would praise its clean, colorful design and Gmail integration.[59]
2007 (June) Artifact introduction American businessman Steve Jobs unveils the first iPhone, a groundbreaking moment in smartphone evolution. The original iPhone (later called iPhone 2G) marks Apple’s entry into the smartphone market. It combines a widescreen iPod, revolutionary phone, and internet communicator.[60] Developed secretly under “Project Purple 2” with AT&T’s Cingular Wireless, it features a 3.5-inch multi-touch glass display, GSM connectivity, and Safari browser, eliminating physical keyboards and styluses. Though initially limited without third-party apps, it redefines mobile design, attracts massive consumer interest, and quickly becomes Apple’s most successful product. Its successor, the iPhone 3G with App Store, launches in 2008. The introduction of mini software applications (Apps) would revolutionize the concept of mobile devices, significantly impacting productivity by providing versatile tools and functionalities on a single device.[18] United States
iPhone 1st Gen
2008 (June 24) Note-taking and task-management application Evernote is launched. The service enables users to capture, organize, and access information across platforms. Features include note-taking, clipping webpages, snapping photos, creating to-dos, and recording audio. All data is synchronized via Evernote’s web service and made available on Windows, Mac, Web, and mobile devices. The milestone reflects the growing popularity of Evernote as a productivity tool, helping users manage information seamlessly across multiple devices.[61][62]
2009 (December 22) Literature Atul Gawande publishes The Checklist Manifesto, which explores the effectiveness of checklists in managing complex tasks across various fields. Gawande, a renowned surgeon, draws on examples from aviation, medicine, disaster response, and other industries to highlight the efficacy of checklists in preventing errors and improving outcomes. The book underscores the simplicity and versatility of checklists as a tool for professionals dealing with increasing complexity.[63] United States
2010 (April 3) Artifact introduction The iPad is first introduced, popularizing the use of tablets for productivity and entertainment.[64] From its debut, it brings multitouch interaction to a larger screen, enabling reading, browsing, and lightweight work tasks. Later updates add multitasking (Slide Over, Split View, Picture in Picture), productivity accessories like the Smart Cover, Smart Keyboard, and Apple Pencil, and integration with apps such as iBooks, FaceTime, and Files. The iPad Pro line would further position it as a laptop alternative. Overall, Apple would steadily advance the iPad as a flexible tool for work and study.[65] United States
1st generation Apple iPad
2011 Literature Jim Benson and Tonianne DeMaria Barry publish Personal Kanban: Mapping Work, Navigating Life, which introduces the concept of Personal Kanban, shifting the focus from mere productivity to effectiveness. Drawing inspiration from Lean principles in manufacturing, the book applies them to individual and team work. It emphasizes visualizing work to transform overwhelming workloads into actionable flows and limiting work-in-progress to enhance completion rates and value understanding. The authors advocate for choosing the right work at the right time, understanding the impact of actions, and creating value in personal, professional, and social aspects of life. Personal Kanban serves as a practical and achievable framework for improving work and decision-making.[66] United States
2012 (December 7) Literature Hal Elrod publishes The Miracle Morning, which introduces a transformative approach to life that promises significant improvements in various areas. The book suggests that by dedicating just six minutes each day, individuals can experience profound changes in happiness, health, success, fitness, energy levels, stress reduction, financial situations, and relationships. The author contends that this "not-so-obvious" secret, known as The Miracle Morning, has been practiced by thousands globally and can lead to the life one has always desired. The book encourages readers to wake up to their full potential and embark on the journey to an extraordinary life.[67] United States
2013 Literature Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington publish The 12 Week Year, which provides a guide to transforming the traditional annual goal-setting approach into a more dynamic 12-week execution cycle. The book challenges the conventional 12-month thinking, emphasizing the advantages of shorter cycles to avoid complacency and enhance urgency. By condensing the year into 12 weeks, the approach fosters focus, clarity, and a heightened sense of urgency, ultimately leading to increased productivity and impactful results. The book serves as a practical resource for individuals and organizations seeking to improve their execution effectiveness, offering insights from experts in the field of execution and implementation. It encourages a shift in perspective to accelerate the journey to success.[68] United States
2016 (January 5) Literature American nonfiction author Cal Newport publishes Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, which is a guide to cultivating the skill of deep work, defined as the ability to concentrate on cognitively demanding tasks without distraction. Newport argues that deep work is a rare and valuable skill in today's economy, offering extraordinary results and true fulfillment. The book provides actionable advice, drawing on stories and examples. Newport suggests that professionals should consider quitting social media and advocates for practicing boredom to enhance deep work. Overall, the book encourages readers to embrace focused success in an increasingly distracted world.[69] United States
2016 (August) Software Notion 1.0 is released as a productivity and note-taking web application. It positions itself as an all-in-one workspace, combining wikis, Kanban boards, templates, and databases. Early users praise its sleek design and flexibility, though some note it is a generalist rather than a specialist tool. Updates soon add comments, Slack integration, Windows and iOS apps, and improved search. In 2018, Notion 2.0 would deliver on the “all-in-one” promise, fueling rapid growth through Product Hunt and press coverage. With features like Evernote import and relational databases, Notion would gain millions of users as a lightweight yet powerful productivity platform.[70] United States
2017 (February 28) Literature American author Mel Robbins publishes The 5 Second Rule, a self-help book exploring the concept of the "push moment," drawing on scientific principles, historical anecdotes, and real-life stories from various domains. The core idea is to leverage a simple tool – the 5 Second Rule – to propel oneself towards positive actions. By counting down from five, individuals can overcome self-doubt, procrastination, fear, and uncertainty. The book emphasizes the transformative power of this technique, citing its broad appeal with over 8 million views of Robbins' TEDx Talk and adoption by executives in leading organizations to enhance productivity, collaboration, and engagement. The book provides practical insights on building confidence, breaking procrastination habits, conquering fears, alleviating worries, and expressing ideas with courage. Overall, it seeks to present a universal solution for the common challenge of self-limitation, emphasizing not just knowing what to do but the crucial aspect of knowing how to make oneself do it.[71] United States
2018 (September 25) Literature Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky publish Make Time: How to Focus on What Matters Every Day, which offers a four-step daily framework to help individuals take control of their time and attention in a world filled with constant distractions. Drawing on their experience designing Google products and the renowned "design sprint" methodology, the authors provide a customizable set of practical tips and strategies. The book emphasizes small shifts in habits and environment to optimize energy and focus, allowing readers to intentionally make time for what truly matters in their lives. It's a guide to reclaiming control over one's schedule and priorities.[72][73] United States
2018 (October 16) Literature American writer James Clear publishes Atomic Habits, which would be considered a highly practical guide to habit formation. Clear distills essential insights into building positive habits and breaking negative ones. The book provides actionable strategies, emphasizing the power of small changes for significant results. With a focus on productivity and effectiveness, the book would gain widespread acclaim for its straightforward approach.[74] United States
2019 (February 5) Literature Cal Newport publishes Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World, which advocates for a more intentional and mindful use of technology. Newport provides insights into overcoming the overwhelming digital distractions that contribute to anxiety and stress. The book introduces a 'digital declutter' process, guiding readers to reevaluate their relationship with social media, prioritize meaningful conversations, and rediscover the joys of offline experiences. Described as the Marie Kondo of technology, Newport's book offers practical advice for regaining control over devices and achieving a calmer, more purposeful life amidst the chaos of the digital world.[75] United States
2019 Smart devices gain increased relevance as IoT (Internet of Things) and AI devices infiltrate the workspaces, enhancing productivity. Entire smart systems emerge, dedicated to optimizing energy usage and management efficiency in modern establishments.[18]
2019 Statistics The global productivity management software market is valued at US$45.81 billion, anticipating to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.4% from 2020 to 2027.[18] Worldwide
2020 (August 9) Research A study explores the distinction between workaholism and overcommitment, often used interchangeably to describe excessive job involvement. The research, involving 133 employees, aims to disentangle these constructs by comparing their antecedents and health consequences. The results show a relationship between the two but highlight that overcommitment is uniquely linked to job burnout, serving as the true negative aspect of work drive. This has implications for personal productivity as it emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing overcommitment to mitigate negative consequences. Additionally, the study links workaholism to conscientiousness and overcommitment to neuroticism, offering insights into how personality traits influence work-related behaviors and productivity.[76]
2020 (November 12) Literature Cal Newport publishes The Time-Block Planner, which introduces the time-blocking method, a time-management strategy employed by highly successful individuals like Elon Musk and Bill Gates. The planner facilitates task prioritization, enabling users to focus on crucial matters without being distracted by emails, social media, or external demands. By adopting the time-block method, individuals can efficiently organize their schedules, push aside distractions, and concentrate on impactful work.[77] United States
2021 (March 2) Literature Cal Newport publishes A World Without Email: Reimagining Work in an Age of Communication Overload, which challenges the prevailing email-centric approach to work and advocates for a more productive and fulfilling work environment. Newport argues that constant digital communication has created a counterproductive "hyperactive hive mind" workflow, leading to reduced profitability and overall dissatisfaction. Drawing on investigative reporting, he proposes clear processes, reduced administrative tasks, and streamlined communication to redefine how tasks are managed. Newport envisions a future where the knowledge sector evolves beyond email dependence.[78] United States

Numerical and visual data

The image below shows Google Trends data for the entry "personal productivity" over time, from January 2004 to January 2025, when the screenshot was taken. Interest by country is shown on world map.[79]

Google Books Ngram Viewer

The graph shows the frequency of the phrase "personal productivity" in books published from 1900 to 2022. Usage is very low until mid-century, then increases steadily, with a sharp rise from the late 1980s. The highest peaks occur around 1986, 1996, and 1997, suggesting significant attention to the concept during that time."Personal Productivity Ngram". Google Ngram Viewer. Retrieved January 24, 2025.

Meta information on the timeline

How the timeline was built

The initial version of the timeline was written by Sebastian Sanchez.

Funding information for this timeline is available.

Feedback and comments

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What the timeline is still missing

  • Henry Ford introduced CANDO (Cleaning up, Arranging, Neatness, Discipline, and Ongoing improvement)
  • Event types: Literature, Youtube channels, mobile apps, artifacts, research
  • research on procrastination, multitasking, perfectionism, lack of prioritization, constant interruptions, overcommitting, lack of planning, not taking breaks, ignoring health, disorganization, fear of delegating, negative self-talk [1].
  • Research on coffee, caffeine


Timeline update strategy

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Sundial". Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  2. ↑ "Water Clock". Bob's Watches. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  3. ↑ "Confucianism". Encyclopaedia Britannica. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  4. ↑ "Aristotle Quotes on Self-Discipline". Art Departmental. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  5. ↑ Nurmi, Raimo (1984). "Aristotle and Management". ScienceDirect. doi:10.1016/0281-7527(84)90010-0. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  6. ↑ "The Pursuit of Excellence is Part of the Pursuit of Happiness". Tracking Wonder. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  7. ↑ "Title Unknown" (PDF). National Council for the Social Studies. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  8. ↑ "Faith, Frugality, and the Birth of Capitalism: The Protestant Work Ethic Explained". Psychologs. Retrieved January 25, 2025.
  9. ↑ Powell, Walter W.; Snellman, Kaisa (2004). "The Knowledge Economy" (PDF). Annual Review of Sociology. 30: 199–220. doi:10.1146/annurev.soc.29.010202.100037. Retrieved January 25, 2025.{{cite journal}}: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)
  10. ↑ Owano, Nancy. "Scotland lunar-calendar find sparks Stone Age rethink". phys.org. Retrieved 20 December 2023.
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