# Priyanka Mattoo Advocates for the Joy of Inefficiency Author Priyanka Mattoo explores how overachieving women can reclaim time by doing less. - **Source:** [Vogue](https://www.vogue.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-05 - **Topic:** [careers](https://brifing.si/c/careers) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/058c9dde-ef31-4d6c-b607-feb518502166 ## The Burden of Doing It All In 2026, the societal expectation for mothers to manage work, family, and domestic duties has reached a breaking point. Priyanka Mattoo argues that the pressure to be constantly productive is a survival mechanism rather than an aspiration. Her new book explores the personal cost of maintaining an unsustainable pace of life. ## The Experiment in Inefficiency Mattoo conducted a private experiment by intentionally stopping her instinct to meet every need of those around her. She questioned whether her absence would cause chaos or collapse. Surprisingly, she discovered that most people were capable of handling their own tasks, such as peeling their own oranges, without her constant intervention. ## Reframing Over-Functioning Habits The author identifies her tendency to over-function as a form of arrogance and control that hindered others' development. By pulling back, she realized her previous behavior created deficits in the skill sets of her children and family members. Learning to tolerate the discomfort of inaction became a crucial step in her journey. ## Systemic Barriers and Privilege Mattoo acknowledges that her ability to step back is supported by financial privilege and access to resources like childcare. She critiques the patriarchal structures that condition women to shoulder domestic burdens. While she advocates for personal change, she emphasizes that these systemic issues require broader societal support to truly resolve effectively. ## Evolution from Previous Work Writing her second book was a lighter experience compared to her first memoir, which processed generations of intergenerational trauma. The therapeutic work required for her debut allowed her to approach this project with more self-compassion. She spent two years writing this account, capturing her personal growth in real time throughout. ## Inspiration from Cultural Icons Mattoo draws inspiration from figures like Jenny Odell and Nigella Lawson, who balance high achievement with genuine enjoyment. Odell’s work on rethinking time served as a foundational seed for Mattoo’s current philosophy. These icons demonstrate that it is possible to remain productive while appreciating the actual process of daily life. ## Impact on Interpersonal Relationships By relinquishing the role of the perpetual helper, Mattoo found that her relationships improved significantly. She moved away from the trope of the stressed eldest daughter, becoming more pleasant for others to be around. This shift allowed her to foster deeper connections rather than just serving as a functional utility for others. ## A Call for Conscious Rest The book serves as a firm pep talk for stressed overachievers struggling with anxiety and worst-case scenario thinking. Mattoo encourages readers to test the boundaries of their own utility to see what actually happens. Ultimately, the goal is to trade compulsive productivity for a more intentional and enjoyable way of living. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.vogue.com/article/priyanka-mattoo-how-to-be-less-useful-interview — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._