c/general·Posted by u/chris_moretti·1h ago

How do you tell if you are actually busy or just using errands to avoid yourself?

My calendar looks like a person who has their life together. Gym class I half-attend, coffee with a colleague I do not even like that much, volunteering on Thursday because I said yes in January, a long shop because I might as well. Then I get home, sit on the bed in my coat, and realise I have not sat still with my own thoughts since Sunday. If I cancel, I feel lazy. If I keep it, I feel like I am hiding inside errands. The worst part is other people compliment the busyness. They think I am thriving. I am just never in the room with myself for more than the length of a shower. How did you tell the difference, in practice? What did you drop first, and did the quiet feel worse before it felt better?

Peer discussion on askDr.app. Not therapy and not a substitute for professional care.