Busy, Busy, Busy

This might be more of a rant that a productive blog post. But I am continuously annoyed at the need to be busy and productive in our culture. We are constantly going and going......all the time.

My need to be busy has progressed over the years, especially during college. It's to the point where I cannot enjoy a movie. Some people find watching TV or a movie relaxing; however, the thought of sitting in one place for such a long time, almost throws me into an anxiety attack! (Ok that is a bit exaggerated.) But the need to be constantly busy cannot be postponed through an entire movie. If I ever watch TV or a movie I am always multitasking, even if it is just shopping online. Although I have not always been this way, I have to wonder why this changed has occurred.

  
I grew up in rural eastern Montana, and there were many times, especially over the summer, when I didn't even know the day of the week. I was never bored, but there was never a feeling or need to be busy. Although "growing up" or moving to a city can be blamed for this change, but the need to be busy is becoming part of everyday America, not just mine.

Being "busy" is becoming the cultural norm in America. People need to constantly rush from one thing to another whether it is work, dinner plans, or school activities.

However, being "busy" and "productive" are two very different things. If your activities are frantic, rushed with an accompanying feeling of being overwhelmed, then you are most likely busy. If you are focused and deal with things in a proactive and effective manner, then you are most likely productive. Needless to say, being productive is more enjoyable and less stressful.

As Americans we want people to view us a busy; however, there is much more to this. By "busy" we feel that we are working toward a goal. Standing still is perceived as laziness; therefore, moving and filling our schedules has a more positive light. Going and going helps convince yourselves that we are making progress toward our degree, relationships, or just life in general.


Sometimes I need to remind myself that I do not need to get caught up in this cultural norm. Instead sometimes you just need to take a breath and enjoy a moment or movie for that matter. Overall, being busy doesn't get us closer to our life goals. Productivity and time management are much more effective and rewarding; however, it is not the norm.