Catalyst

The frantic and frenetic pace of society salts the mouths of so many with two little words.

“I’m busy.”

Usually uttered with a deep sigh and slumping shoulders, the two words convey the complete picture of life. For many people, the burden of their lives rival Atlas’ onus.

What does it mean, “I’m busy.”

Usually, people mean “I’ve got so much to do.”

Think again. It could mean:

I don’t know how to say no. I take on too many commitments so I am overloaded.
I can sort my life into priorities. Finding a paper clip takes the same importance as taking your blood pressure medicine. (Many busy people have to take blood pressure medicine.)
I am bored and I need to fill my life with trivialities. Many people trade a long to-do list with a few things that really give joy.
I feel guilty for resting. If I am not in perpetual motion, I have no worth.

Next time, you feel the sigh coming and your shoulders slumped and you feel the “I’m busy” coming up in the throat, ask yourself “what do I really mean by ‘I’m busy.’” Then do something about it.