Are we really too busy?

Too busy or not busy enough?

I recently listened to a podcast where the guest on the podcast had been researching the differences between experiences reported by the people living in different countries. In America, there were skyrocketing numbers in reported experiences on this particular subject, Japan was slightly lower, while Koreans said they have no time for that nonsense. The biggest differences were due to culture. Koreans are busy with work and advancement, Japan has, for the most part, reached success, while Americans struggle with having too much free time. Because of these differences Americans and Japanese citizens have more time on their hands to look into and become immersed in, well, whatever they want. And yes, it was an episode about aliens. And yes, I have my own opinion on the subject.

After listening I started thinking about the differences this man saw between the cultures. I don’t think this guy was too far off either. If you look at statistics on mental health issues, crime, or just a general unrest in our country I think you would agree that we have entirely way too much time on our hands. But why do we always claim to be so busy?

When you run into a friend at the store and they ask, “how are you doing?” most of us would reply with tired or busy or maybe even both. So, I wonder if we could solve some of those daily issues with being busier with things that matter?

Instead of being busy scrolling why not be busy cleaning or organizing our homes? Instead of being busy with planning the next event or trip we busy ourselves with playing in the yard with our kids. Instead of being busy with the things that ultimately drain us and cause inner distress why don’t we find the things that truly matter in our lives.

Have you ever heard the saying ‘gluttons for punishment’? Yeah, that’s us Americans.

But I sincerely wonder if a lot of the depression and feelings of loneliness and the endless search for purpose might be solved or at least elevated if we would just busy ourselves with things that matter. Of course, work matters. God blessed us with work, believe it or not. He also blessed us with rest. How about the blessing of family and friends? Exercising our spiritual gifts for His glory?

I want to challenge you (and myself) to be MORE busy.

“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Colossians 3:23

“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31

The Millennial Mom