Seven Words that Changed my Day

I have a tendency to fill my day too full and then wonder why I can't get it all done. Busyness is definitely something I have seen not only in myself but others. Being a Type A personality I thrive on projects. I am also a very detailed and perfectionist type of person. So add all that up and you can see an opportunity to overdo.

Some definitions of busyness: 

• The state of being or appearing to be actively engaged in an activity.
• Cluttered with details to the point of being distracted.
• When you have a lot of tasks to do all at once. 

Here are some examples of what busy people say:

• I'm sorry I haven't called. I've been so busy.
• I have enough work to keep me busy for a while.
• My week has been so busy!
• I am a very busy person!

One day I was sitting in my office and the building custodian came in to empty the trash. He asked me how I was doing. Normally I would respond with a positive remark but that day was one of those overwhelming days. I'm not sure what response I gave but immediately Ray said, "You are active, productive, and highly effective!" Well, that comment resonated in my spirit and I began to not feel so rushed and hurried.

It is amazing how those seven little words changed not only my day but my outlook on life. When I have the tendency to get caught up in busyness, I remind myself of that statement that Ray spoke to me that day many years ago. I realize that I can't deny that I have some days that are fuller than others but I can change my attitude. I can believe that instead of just being busy I can say that in the middle of what I am doing I can be active, productive, and highly effective.