Too Efficient?

Is there merit in being too efficient? I say yes as it shows a persons ability to get a job done well int he least amount of time required. No nonsense, just work. That is what you're paid for right? Ok but what if you work solidly, but still take the time to chat and grab a coffee, but you're still 'too' efficient? Why does it seem to have such negative connotations??

After ranting for a paragraph and not liking it I decided I'd keep this short. What is wrong with being efficient? People complain of being over-worked or not having enough help, but when they are given help, they don't cope. Is it possible that we are just gluttons for punishment and although we might complain about stress etc, that we thrive on it and it subconsciously pushes us? If we have less to do (or less of a deadline to meet) we seem to feel a little lost and just meander around and maybe even not do such a good job in the end. I mean how much more motivated are you to get out of the house on your one day off? I know I'm not. Once I'm on that couch, it'd take something pretty important to get me out and about and motivated. But going to work I do like clock-work and stopping off do run and erand on the way home is no hassell, but doing it on Saturday just fills up Saturday and it feels less like a weekend and more like a chore.

All this is because at my last job and my current one, I have felt accused of being 'too' efficient and I keep wondering what is so bad about it. Inefficiency in things that I feel are basic drives me mental so why shouldn't I strive to do the best job I can? I'm not like this with everything, but making me feel bad about being successful and efficient only discourages proactivity in other areas.

I'm not saying all work no play, but work for the time you need to, de-stress and chat to people occasionally and relax when it counts.