One of my bad habits is saying "busy" when people ask me how I'm doing. Sometimes it's because I actually am busy, but other times it's because that's what I think I'm supposed to say. That's what important or promoted people say. So why are we so proud to talk about how busy we are all the time?
In 2016, researchers conducted a study to figure it out. And interestingly, these status attributions（归属） are heavily influenced by our own beliefs. In other words, the more we believe that one has the opportunity for success based on hard work, the more we tend to think that people who always skip leisure and work are of higher standing.
That's why we feel like we have to appear busy, and there's a real perception that if someone is knee-deep in meetings, emails, and stress, then they're probably a big deal. According to a recent study, one in five highly engaged employees is at risk of burnout.
It sounds self-righteous （自以为是） and sets the wrong tone. Phrases like "I have limited access to email" and "I'll respond as soon as I get back" sound like you're being held against your will from working as opposed to making the most of your time off.
That's why we recently launched the Out of Office Email Generator, a free tool you can use before your next long weekend or trip. Managers need to think twice about emailing their teams on the weekend and talking about how busy they are, and so do leaders.
A. Actually, leading a busy life can be avoidable.
B. But working long hours doesn't drive better results.
C. A person of high status feels tired when promoted.
D. Busy people are found to be those with high social rank.
E. You can share you won't be checking the mailbox till you return.
F. This culture of busyness is making it hard to find work-life balance.
G. Personally, I'm going to stop saying "busy" when people ask me how I am.
