Why is everyone so damn busy? It seems that the response to “How are you?” on conference calls or conversations with friends results in my least favorite word – busy. Most of the insanely busy people I know aren’t working multiple jobs or balancing family and work. The full calendar is a result of choice rather than sheer workload. Busyness isn’t a badge of honor anymore… it just makes you look self-important (and self-loathing).

Stop the madness, people. Learn the power of no, find some work/life balance, and, for the love of all things holy, unplug from your email. If you’re not too busy, read “The Busy Trap.” It will make you think twice about using this dreadful word ever again.