PurpleReset

Redefining “Busy”

Busy. It’s a word that once defined me, a relentless cycle of deadlines and exhaustion. But I’ve come to reject that narrative. These days, I am not busy; I am intentionally occupied.

Freelance life gifts me the opportunity to curate my life, shaping each day with purpose. While this freedom isn’t everyone’s reality, the mindset of intentionality is something anyone can adopt, even if you’re navigating a 9-to-5.

The Joys of Freedom

Being freelance allows me to pause my workday at 11 a.m. for a woodland walk with my spirited companion, Ostara. Afternoons filled with client calls are balanced by errands at off-peak hours, avoiding the weekend rush. It’s not just about flexibility—it’s about intentionally weaving joy and balance into my life.

But you don’t have to work freelance to step off the hamster wheel of busy. With a little planning, anyone can live a life that feels less reactive and more purposeful.

Busy vs. Intentionally Occupied

The difference between “busy” and “intentionally occupied” is profound. Busy feels like an endless, overwhelming chase. Intentionally occupied is proactive and deliberate. It’s about prioritizing what matters and reclaiming your time, no matter your schedule.

If you’re working a 9-to-5, here are some practical ways to start shifting your mindset and reclaiming your day:

Practical Tips for Cultivating Intentionality in a 9-to-5 World

1. Start Your Day With Intention
   Instead of diving straight into emails or rushing out the door, take a few moments to centre yourself. This could be as simple as journaling for 5 minutes, stretching, or sipping your coffee mindfully. Setting the tone for your day can help you feel more in control.
2. Reclaim Your Lunch Break
   Too often, lunch breaks become an extension of work. Use this time intentionally—step outside, take a walk, read, or simply unplug. Even 30 minutes spent doing something for you can recharge your mind and body.
3. Time Block Your Day
   Structure your workday by blocking out specific times for tasks. Be realistic about what you can accomplish in a day and schedule intentional pauses between tasks. This reduces overwhelm and keeps you focused.
4. Communicate Boundaries
   Busy culture often stems from blurred boundaries. Be clear about your working hours and availability. If you need time for a break or to focus, don’t hesitate to communicate that to colleagues.
5. Embrace Micro-Intentionality
   Even if your schedule is tight, there are small ways to add intentionality. Take a few deep breaths before a meeting. Stand up and stretch for a minute every hour. Savour your first bite of lunch. These micro-moments can help you feel more present.
6. Bookend Your Day
   Create rituals to begin and end your workday. This could be a morning walk to “commute” to your home office or writing a quick list of wins and goals before shutting your laptop. These transitions help create boundaries between work and life.
7. Redefine Productivity
   Productivity isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters. Reflect on your to-do list. Are your tasks aligned with your priorities, or are you simply keeping busy?

Final musings: Intentionality is for Everyone

Shifting from “busy” to intentionally occupied is a mindset shift that anyone can embrace, regardless of their work situation. It’s about making small, deliberate choices that bring balance, joy, and fulfilment into your day.

If you’re feeling trapped by busy, start with one small change—perhaps a quiet morning moment or a dedicated lunch break. Remember, life isn’t about endlessly ticking off tasks. It’s about living with purpose, however, that looks for you.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, the woods are calling, and Ostara is already at the door.

Ready to start your journaling journey? Explore my collection of thoughtfully designed journals to help you make the most of your practice. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned journaler, there’s a perfect journal waiting for you. Let’s write your way to clarity, calm, and growth! If you are interested in finding our why I started Purple Reset you can read all about it here. If you want to join a journaling community join me on Facebook and/or message to join my Journaling Whatsapp group