From Busy to Full: Embracing Intentional Living From Busy to Full: Embracing Intentional Living
Every day we hear our colleagues, clients and family saying, "I'm so busy!". We’re often so surprised at how much time has passed and wonder what we’ve been doing with it. It’s common to reach a point where we pause and wonder why we are feeling rushed, pressured, and constantly busy.
But what if we changed our language and perspective from 'busy' to 'full'? This subtle shift can have a profound impact on how we view our lives and the choices we make.
The Challenge with 'Busy'
Being 'busy' often carries a connotation of stress, overwhelm, and a lack of control. It can feel like we're constantly running on a hamster wheel, never quite catching up. According to a Gallup poll, 44% of those surveyed felt frequently stressed, and 41% experienced worry on a regular basis. These statistics highlight the toll that a 'busy' mindset can take on our wellbeing.
As the ancient philosopher, Seneca, wisely noted, "It is not that we have a short time to live, but that we waste a lot of it."
The Power of 'Full'
Shifting our language from 'busy' to 'full' can help us reclaim a sense of intention and purpose in our lives. A full life speaks to conscious choices, rich with wonderful experiences. It acknowledges that our time is valuable and that we're choosing to fill it with activities and relationships that matter to us.
Embracing a 'full' life allows us to:
Prioritise intentionally: Instead of being swept along by obligations, we actively choose how to spend our time
Include diverse experiences: A full life can encompass work, family time, social connections, hobbies, and spiritual practices
Cultivate balance: By viewing our lives as 'full’, we're more likely to ensure a healthy mix of different activities and commitments
Appreciate the present: Fullness implies satisfaction and contentment with our current state
The Wellness Connection
Interestingly, this shift in perspective aligns well with research on wellbeing. A study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that individuals who engage in a variety of experiences report higher levels of life satisfaction and positive emotions.
Moreover, the World Health Organization emphasises that mental health is "a state of wellbeing in which an individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community." This holistic view of wellness resonates with the idea of a 'full' life that encompasses various aspects of human experience.
Here’s how we work with our clients to help them embrace this approach:
Reflect on your values: What truly matters to you? Ensure your 'fullness' aligns with these priorities.
Practise mindfulness: Be present in each moment, appreciating the richness of your experiences
Learn to say no: Saying no to activities that don't align with your values creates space for meaningful fullness
Schedule downtime: Remember, a truly full life includes time for rest and rejuvenation
Celebrate small moments: Find joy in everyday experiences, not just big achievements
As the poet, Mary Oliver, beautifully asked, "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?". Embracing a 'full' life perspective encourages us to answer this question thoughtfully and intentionally.
So the next time someone asks how you're doing, instead of defaulting to "I'm so busy," try saying, "My life is full." You might be surprised at how this small change can transform your outlook and wellbeing.
Remember, it's not about doing more, but about doing what matters most. Let's embrace the fullness of life in all its beautiful complexity.