“Iist not enough to be busy. So are the ants. The question is: What are we busy about?” – Henry David Thoreau
“Beware the barrenness of a busy life.” – Socrates
“The really idle person gets nowhere. The perpetually busy person does not get much further.” – Heneage Ogilvie
“Life is what happens while you are busy making other plans.” – John Lennon
“A busy life is not a symbol of status. It’s a symptom of trying to do too much for too many people. A full calendar brings a surplus of stress and a shortage of energy.” – A.G.

It’s the first thing you say when someone asks how you are, the last thing you mention before hanging up, and the go-to excuse for a missed call or a late response. The word? Busy. It’s a word that has become a constant companion, a seemingly harmless descriptor of our lives. But if I had to give it up, I’d do it in a heartbeat.
Yes, you heard that right. I’d give up the word “busy.” And I think you should too.

Think about it. We wear “busy” as a badge of honor, a sign that we’re important, in-demand, and living a full life. “Oh, I’m just so busy,” we say with a sigh, secretly hoping the other person is impressed by our overflowing calendar and endless to-do list.
But what if this word is holding us back? What if “busy” is just a polite way of saying “I’m not prioritizing you” or “I’m feeling overwhelmed”? The truth is, we’re all busy. We’re all juggling work, family, friends, hobbies, and a million other things. Using the word “busy” doesn’t make you special, it just puts a barrier between you and the person you’re talking to.
Imagine this: a friend texts you to grab coffee. Instead of replying, “Sorry, I’m too busy,” you could say, “I’d love to! I can’t make it this week, but how about next Tuesday?” You’re not lying, you’re not making excuses, you’re simply being honest about your availability while also showing you value the relationship.

Giving up the word “busy” forces us to be more intentional with our time and our words. It challenges us to get to the root of what’s really going on. Are you genuinely swamped with work, or are you just procrastinating on a task you’re dreading? Are you really too busy to call your mom back, or are you just feeling drained and need some quiet time?
Let’s reframe our thinking. Instead of saying we’re busy, let’s talk about what we’re actually doing. Instead of “I’m too busy to help you move,” you could say, “I’d love to, but I have a deadline at work I need to focus on this weekend.” The second option is more specific and honest, and it shows that you respect the other person enough to tell them the truth.
Let’s challenge ourselves to stop using “busy” as a crutch. Let’s get real about our schedules, our priorities, and our feelings. Let’s give up the word that has become an excuse and a roadblock, and instead, be present, be honest, and be available for the people and things that truly matter.