When someone asks “how are you”? how many times at work or in life has your response been “oh busy, you know” or “just rushed off my feet” or “so busy it’s unbelievable”.
It occurred to me this became the standard response at some point in time, even more bizarre it’s a widely used response to the question, “how are you”?
When you hear someone say “I’m so busy” especially at work, what does it make you think?
Arguably we live in a mostly services-based economy now in which our intellectual capital is key. Does saying you’re busy suggest that your intellect is in short supply and therefore by the law of economics more valuable? Having every moment of your day taken up with “stuff” alongside seeing everyone else’s “stuff” day in day out on social media, (whether it’s work related or not) must be contributing to the growing stress, anxiety and depression statistics.
I believe it’s a fashion that’s about to end with the emphasis now on work/life balance, getting more sleep, and looking after our mental wellbeing. Perhaps if we thought about the question “how are you?” a little more instead of reacting with an automatic reply, we might realise that sending emails at 2am or boasting about all-nighters isn’t impressive, it’s damaging.
Change is coming but organisational leadership need to create a culture that ensures it’s no longer acceptable to sacrifice that life balance, live without enough sleep or work through illness.
At Mind & Mission, we work with leadership to deliver solutions that will enhance your mental health, the wellbeing of your team and the performance of your organisation.
