"You Good? Keeping Busy?"

I got a text today from a new friend, one who I guess isn't too familiar yet with my deep commitment to working against overwhelm.

He sent me some book recommendations then hit me with, "You good? Keeping busy?"

I paused, finding myself surprisingly triggered by that loaded word "busy." The despair and turmoil I felt drips off the image I chose for this blog: a tired woman sitting bleakly at a desk, literally covered in work to be done, not even the energy to open her eyes, the only consolation a steaming cup of coffee (well, for me it would be iced tea, preferably peach).

As an HSP I absolutely hate "busy" (which for me equals overwhelm), and I'm on a mission to obliterate it for myself—and, I hope, for all of you, my wonderful readers.

What could I say to hit that sweet spot between a chill-but-fake sure and a judgy are you a lunatic?

Where I landed got me there, I think: "Good, thanks, not too busy. Trying to chill and enjoy life a little more." And that was true, and not judgy at all.

His response? A pleasant surprise. Rather than some replies I've gotten (or overheard) like Gotta keep grinding! or Can't Stop, Won't Stop—all shudder-inducing to me—he came back with "That's nice. I need to try that sometime."

O.K.! Not a bad start. Glad to hear he's open to at least considering some relaxation and not working 'til he drops.

I wrote back—and I hope you can find your way to this place too—"I highly recommend it."

Illustration: Image by Tyli Jura from Pixabay