Being busy is not the same as being productive

“Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” – Socrates

“Busy” – It’s a word that slips into almost every conversation: “I’m busy,” “Life is busy,” “Work is busy.” But the more I use it, the more I realize it doesn’t really say anything meaningful. It doesn’t explain what I’m actually doing, how I’m feeling, or whether the things filling my days are valuable or just noise.

If I gave up the word “busy,” I’d be forced to describe my life in more honest terms. Instead of saying “I’m busy,” maybe I’d say, “I’m working on a project that excites me,” or “I’ve been spending more time with family.” Removing that one word would push me to be more intentional, and to recognize what truly matters instead of hiding behind a vague label.

Sometimes giving up a word means gaining a little more clarity.