I have spent the last month or so working alongside two epic teams on both a traditional strategic plan and a culture strategic plan. What I love most about the projects is the human engagement process, which typically entails one on one phone calls, group engagement sessions, and fun surveys. I have literally interacted, with exactly 523 professionals in 3 weeks’ time. – With these interactions, whether it be a one-on-one phone call, or a live interaction as people enter a collective space, I noticed one clear message, when I say hello and ask someone how they are doing - I’m busy is the most popular response.
Let’s call it like it is - I’m busy feels like the new badge of honor. However, this new badge of honor can also be the verbal equivalent of a stop sign and can impact a conversation from the very first interaction. When we say I’m busy, think about what you could be communicating. To some, it might sound like, I’m running on autopilot, I don’t have any more capacity, or I’m not interested in what you are getting ready to say. For others it may be a way to sound important or to try and prove they are a valuable team member. Or for some, it’s simply that they are busy and are so consumed by that feeling and therefore is their auto response.
But for those of you that have thought about the I’m busy response yourself, here are some reflections.
Breaking the Cycle of Autopilot Responses
Let’s take a moment to reflect on why “I’m busy” has become our go-to. Is it because it’s easier than explaining how we’re really feeling? Is it a way to shield ourselves from deeper conversations? Or maybe it’s just a habit we’ve formed in the fast pace of life and work. Whatever the reason, the words we choose matter. When we stay on autopilot with “I’m busy,” we not only limit our own mindset but also the opportunity for meaningful interactions. Shifting away from this response is about more than sounding different—it’s about being intentional with how we communicate and the connections we create.
From Busy to Full: What’s Your Default?
What if, next time, instead of leaning on the old I’m busy, we said, I’m making a difference on those I serve/lead, or I ‘m problem solving with my team, or I’m living life to the fullest (too much, lol?) - It sounds pretty different, right? But just imagine the shift that comes with this new response. I don’t know many of us that entered our profession without the desire to impact those we serve or to design meaningful interactions, and we may just need to remind ourselves that our tasks are a means to fuel our purpose, not just fill our calendars. – FYI, I have been trying out my new responses, and I must be honest, I like the way it feels in comparison to my old I’m busy default.
The Positive Impact of Embracing Fullness
Imagine the effect this could have in our workplaces, with our families, or even in our friendships. When we trade “busy” for “living life to the fullest or making a difference” we give people permission to bring joy, curiosity, and excitement into the conversation and possibly their own lives. Conversations can easily drive through that stop sign and aren’t just about what got done but about what made an impact. The energy shifts from one of routine to one of real, genuine enthusiasm and possibly deeper connection.
Taking the Challenge
So here’s the challenge: next time someone asks how things are going, try to come up with your new response that is not a default. Notice the shift in the room and the conversation. People might look at you with surprise, maybe even curiosity. They’ll want to know more because, deep down, most of us crave fullness over busyness.
Comments