How Busy Is Too Busy?

Beware the barrenness of a busy life. Socrates, philosopher

It seems that “busyness” is a badge of honor these days. Many of our ancestors worked from sunup to sundown in order to survive. I’m not talking about that kind of busy. I’m talking about a self-imposed schedule of running from one activity, meeting, appointment to the next—sometimes overlapping. 

At times, I own this. My well-intentioned balanced life gets out of whack and I become one of those people who leaves early to go to the next thing. However, I do embrace what Jodi Clarke, MA, LPC/MHSP says about busyness.

“Remember self-worth does not come from being busy. Come up with a mantra that expresses what self-worth truly means to you or reasons for self-love.” 

As I’ve often written in this blog, it’s okay to say “no.” Clarke expands on this, “Sacrificing our well-being to overextend ourselves can have severe consequences in the long term.” 

Affirmation: I am a worthwhile person.

Coaching questions: What does your schedule look like? If you’re running yourself ragged through self-imposed activities, how can you get back in balance? What will it feel like to have a day (or more) with nothing that “must” be done?