Two mothers walk into a café. One asks, “How are things going?” The other replies, “Oh, you know. Just busy.” They both receive phone calls, remember urgent appointments, and dash out for last-minute errands. Busy, busy, busy.
But this isn’t a punchline; it’s a reality for many moms. If you’re a parent, you’ve likely experienced or overheard such conversations countless times. In American culture, being busy is not just expected—it’s celebrated. But should we really be wearing busyness like a badge of honor?
Dr. Susan Koven, an internist, recently noted in the Boston Globe that she’s seeing a troubling trend among her patients. They share a common condition characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, irritability, and even physical pain—all stemming from excessive busyness. There are no tests to diagnose this condition, yet its signs are unmistakable. Could it be that we’re all grappling with an addiction to being busy?
Last week, a friend asked about my day, and I responded with the obligatory “busy.” Instead of commiserating, she inquired, “What exactly do you have planned today?” My instinct was to defend my hectic schedule—grocery shopping, cleaning the house, writing deadlines, kids’ activities, and cooking for a friend in need. I was BUSY, dammit!
But when she suggested I take a break to enjoy life a bit more, I felt a pang of irritation. Why did she assume I wasn’t enjoying life? I was simply articulating my busyness, not my unhappiness. This conversation left me feeling unsettled, prompting me to reflect later that evening. Why did her simple query feel like a jab?
The truth is, despite my complaints, I thrive on being busy. It’s a cycle that brings me both fulfillment and frustration. Many of us find ourselves adding more to our schedules, taking on extra tasks at work, and filling every moment with activities.
But why do we persist in glorifying this frantic lifestyle? The answer lies in societal perceptions. We equate busyness with self-worth and status, sharing our packed agendas on social media to validate our worthiness. From the moment we wake up, we plan our endless to-do lists, rushing through mornings like our lives depend on it.
However, let’s remember: our lives do not depend on this relentless pursuit of productivity. We need to break free from the notion that our value is tied to our level of busyness. Taking time to step back, to detox from the chaos, can reveal many hidden treasures within us.
Psychologist Robert Holden wisely stated, “The purpose of your life is not to be as busy as possible.” While busyness can serve a purpose, being perpetually occupied often disguises deeper issues like inadequacy and fear.
So, let’s take a moment to pause. Step away from the busyness that can consume us. You are valuable beyond your to-do list. Yes, there will always be tasks to tackle and responsibilities to manage, but most of us can likely afford to let a few things slide without catastrophe.
Important moments often arise in the stillness, and mamas, you deserve to savor them.
If you’re navigating the complexities of parenthood, be sure to check out other insightful articles on our site, such as this one on home insemination. For a deeper understanding of pregnancy, visit this excellent resource from the World Health Organization.
In summary, while busyness is ingrained in our culture, it’s crucial to recognize the potential pitfalls of an overly packed schedule. Balancing our lives with moments of quiet can lead to greater clarity and fulfillment.