Always Busy: 5 actions that will set you free from your constant busyness

As a child, I thrived on being active and getting involved with lots of stuff. Back then, it was easy because I took part in activities I loved and that brought me joy and a sense of accomplishment.

Growing up didn’t change my attitude towards busyness, it simply shifted my reasons for it.

I distinctly remember a turning point in my life when being busy became less about experiencing life and more about filling a void. It happened after a breakup when busyness became my shield against sadness and loneliness. Gradually, being busy became a coping mechanism and a skill I eventually mastered. 

When I became a mother, busyness seemed inevitable. The demands of parenthood naturally filled my schedule with countless tasks. 

Yet, I’ve come to realise that being incessantly busy is a trap. 

Life isn’t about filling every moment or checking off endless to-dos. It’s about living fully, embracing experiences that matter and finding happiness in everyday moments.

Moreover, when you’re happy, it radiates to those around you, especially your children.

For me, being a positive role model, especially as I’m a mum, is crucial and that doesn’t mean constantly being on the go.

Now don’t get me wrong. There is nothing wrong with being busy, as long as it’s the right type of busy. I now believe there is a wrong and a right type of busy. You just need to determine which one you are doing and whether you want to change things.

What’s the driver?

Start by understanding why you’re so busy. Perhaps you believe you are the only one who can do all the things or you’re striving for something that is unattainable and yet you still keep going. Maybe you feel compelled to fill every moment with activity otherwise you’re wasting time or being busy is a distraction and means you can avoid unwanted feelings or situations.

These thoughts, these beliefs may not be serving you well.

It’s time to challenge them.

Pause for a moment

Take a moment for a bit of self-reflection. Journal, meditate or simply take a walk so you can give yourself the space to understand your reasons for being busy.

Get curious with compassion and look beneath the surface of your busyness to understand the why.

You can then do the work that will allow you to be busy on your terms that feels right.

Remove, replace, redirect

Now to look at that mammoth to-do list. Are they all necessary? Be ruthless and cross off what doesn’t truly matter. Yes, chores may be essential and yet not everything on your list needs to happen.

Are you the only one?

Accept that you don’t have to do it all alone. You can ask for help. Share those responsibilities with your partner, friends and family where appropriate. It doesn’t have to be all on you.

Develop good habits

Now that you’ve done the initial work, you have space to replace your old habits with new habits that will serve you.

Start small. Practice saying no to unnecessary tasks. Prioritise activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. You will see that over time, you’ll develop healthier habits that enhance your well-being and allow you to use your time in a way that is right for you.

Ultimately, being busy is a choice. You can fill your time with meaningful activities that enrich your life and bring you happiness, or you can remain trapped in a cycle of constant activity without purpose.

It’s your choice

Choose wisely.

Are you caught in the wrong kind of busyness?

You might also like to read, 5 Proven Tips to Outshine Your Yesterday: Unleash Your Potential Beyond Yesterday!

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