Why Being Constantly Busy is Very Unhealthy

According to the CBS, one in six to seven employees experiences burn-out symptoms. There is a good chance that you have also been overwhelmed by stress at some point. One of the reasons we are so often overstressed is that being busy has become the norm. Where does this come from, and what exactly does it do to your health?

Being Busy Equals Being Successful

We seem to be getting busier and busier. Think about how many people respond with ‘good, but busy’ when you ask how they are. Perhaps you do the same, because let's be honest: a busy and full life seems synonymous with being successful. However, this is not actually healthy, and in the long run, it can make you unhappy.

Why Are We Busy?

In modern society, there are not only a vast number of choices, but a lot is also expected of you. It starts young: choosing the best school or study can already be stressful. Jobs are no longer as straightforward as they used to be: roles and responsibilities are becoming increasingly extensive. Digitalisation plays a significant role in this, as since the advent of smartphones, the lines between work and private life have blurred easily (you can always check your work email or discuss something with a colleague via WhatsApp). You also constantly see on social media that other people are doing fun things, creating the idea that we must lead an exciting and full life 24/7. The fear of missing out, or fear of missing out, thus causes a lot of stress.

This is What Stress Does to Your Health

Stress is unavoidable and part of life. Your body is also perfectly capable of handling short-term stress. However, if your body is under constant tension, you can even get stressed from a simple email. This can lead to poorer concentration and attention to things around you.

The Stress Hormone Cortisol

But tension is not only bad for your mind, but also for your body. You have probably heard of the stress hormone Cortisol, which is released when people experience psychological or physical stress. Cortisol ensures that your body is brought back to balance in stressful situations. Constant tension, however, produces too much Cortisol, which can lead to various physical complaints. Also read our previous blog about stress.

This is How You Deal With It

It's unfortunate, but stress is unavoidable. However, you can greatly influence the way you handle tension:

• Ensure your basic health is in order. Eating healthily makes you feel good, and exercise is often a great outlet.
• Turn off your notifications and check your messages and social media at set times. With a phone, you unconsciously receive impulses and information all day long. You also feel less pressure to respond immediately.
• A good form of relaxation for body and mind is meditation. This is often easier said than done, as taking complete rest is not simple. But practice makes perfect! Read here our blog about which exercises you can do to relax.

Author: Sanne van der Rijt