The Glorification of Busy: Why Less Is Often More

Lessons in Prioritizing Self and Sanity

Photo by Lukas Blazek on Unsplash

My April calendar is bursting, and this coming week will test my limits. I’ve been enjoying a slower pace since I retired from teaching ten months ago, so my brain is working to catch up with everything I have to do. If nothing else, the push this month has shown me why I was constantly overwhelmed. I did way too much, and I wore it like a badge of honor.  

In our society, there seems to be an implicit admiration for those who are always busy. We glorify the ability to juggle multiple responsibilities, to be constantly on the move, and to have a packed schedule. But what lies beneath all this busyness?

I understand the allure of being a superwoman. For years, I was rooted in a vortex of activities, from managing my home and family to my demanding job as a school librarian to my passion for writing. I look back now and marvel at how I managed to keep it all together. I wrote nineteen books in nine years, fueled by caffeine and sheer determination. I thrived on the adrenaline rush of accomplishing so much in such little time.

I was used to the back and forth between my job and my family. I’d navigated those waters for years. When I added in the high-stress world of publishing—I was ripe for a crash. And that’s precisely what happened.

I hit a breaking point, struggling with burnout and exhaustion. It became clear that I couldn't sustain this pace indefinitely. Despite my love for writing, I had to step back and prioritize my well-being.

Retiring from my job as a school librarian was a turning point. It allowed me to slow down and embrace a more balanced lifestyle. No longer did I bask in the glow of busyness; instead, I learned the value of taking care of myself. Sleep became a cherished commodity, no longer sacrificed at the altar of productivity.

Reflecting on this transition, I realize that the glorification of busy often masks more profound issues. It can be a coping mechanism, a way to distract ourselves from underlying stress or dissatisfaction. We may equate being busy with success, mistakenly believing that the more we do, the more accomplished we are.

However, true fulfillment comes from finding the harmony that exists between our various roles and responsibilities. It's about recognizing when to say no, when to prioritize self-care, and when to embrace moments of stillness. I've come to appreciate the beauty of a balanced life, where productivity and well-being coexist harmoniously.

As I navigate these upcoming weeks, filled with exciting events like a visit from my daughter, a book signing, and workshops, I remind myself of the importance of balance. Preparation is crucial, but so is taking breaks, nourishing my mind and body, and enjoying the moments of joy that come with each experience.