Why Being “Busy” Isn’t a Badge of Honour (and What to Aim for Instead)
How many times this week have you answered the question “How are you?” with one word:
“Busy.”
We’ve been conditioned to wear “busy” like it’s a badge of honour… proof that we’re working hard, chasing goals, and doing all the things.
But here’s the truth: busy isn’t the goal. Balanced is.
The Problem With “Busy”
When we glorify busy, here’s what really happens:
We cram our days so full that there’s no room to breathe.
We confuse movement with progress.
We normalise overwhelm, stress, and burnout.
And let’s be honest… who actually wants that?
Because nobody starts a business thinking: “I can’t wait to be stressed 24/7.”
What We Should Be Aiming For Instead
Instead of busy, aim for:
✨ Balance → A business that grows while you still have a life.
✨ Clarity → Clear priorities instead of spinning plates.
✨ Freedom → Time for the people and things that actually matter.
Busy is reactive. Balanced is intentional.
How To Shift From Busy To Balanced
It starts small. Ask yourself:
What tasks am I holding onto that someone else could do?
Where am I saying “yes” out of habit instead of necessity?
What’s one thing I could outsource or automate this week to free up space?
The shift isn’t about doing less, it’s about doing more of what matters and letting go of the rest.
Final Thought
The next time someone asks, “How are you?” imagine how different it would feel to answer:
“Balanced.”
“Focused.”
“Calm.”
That’s a badge worth wearing.