Boost Productivity: Can Ditching Sex Really Help?

It’s true, some individuals are so eager to enhance their productivity that they’re prepared to forgo sex.

Indeed, you read that correctly. According to a recent survey conducted by the dating app Flure, 60% of adults are either contemplating or have already chosen to abstain from sex—and 25% are doing it specifically to improve their work performance.

This raises a critical question: does abstaining from sex genuinely lead to higher productivity? One expert suggests that it’s unlikely and could even backfire.

“The notion that abstaining from sex will drastically increase your productivity is more of a myth than a fact,” stated Leah Levi, a psychologist and sex expert at Flure.

Opposite to the beliefs of those seeking peak performance, sex offers numerous benefits that can actually boost effectiveness in various aspects of life.

“Engaging in sexual activities can enhance mental focus, alleviate stress, and bolster immune health,” Levi noted. “Most individuals feel more relaxed and sharp after sex, not depleted—so the logic behind this theory is flawed.”

Instead of sacrificing sexual intimacy to achieve greater productivity, it’s important to tackle the real problems, such as chronic stress, insufficient sleep, and overall burnout, according to Levi.

“If someone finds that sex is distracting them from focusing, it might not be the sexual activity itself but a lack of balance between their work and personal life,” she added.

Of course, choosing to abstain from sex for personal or ethical reasons is completely acceptable. However, if the goal is to enhance workplace performance, this strategy might not only be ineffective but also detrimental to your happiness.

“Opting for celibacy for spiritual or emotional grounds is perfectly fine. However, avoiding sex just to boost work efficiency seems rather bizarre, to put it mildly,” commented Avery Morgan, a productivity expert from Edubirdie. “Sexuality, like any other form of enjoyment, is crucial for a well-rounded life. Eliminating sources of joy can potentially harm our mental health.”

This is a typical mistake many people make: sacrificing wholesome habits and simple joys to adhere to the demanding hustle culture prevalent today. Yet, that’s a topic for another discussion.

“Enjoyment and relaxation are not just luxuries; they are vital for maintaining cognitive function and motivation,” Morgan explained. “If striving for productivity undermines personal well-being, then the real issue is not sex but rather a culture that prioritizes relentless efficiency and the commodification of time above a balanced life.”