“Busy – how to thrive in a world of too much” is the name of one of the most challenging, interesting, thought-provoking books I’ve read in a long time. And I don’t lead a busy life!

Here’s a quote:

“Imagine you were told that one of two things would happen tomorrow: either you would be hit by a bus and become permanently paralysed from the neck down, or you would  win $27 million in the lottery. You were then asked to predict how happy you would be in a year’s time as either a paraplegic, and as a multi-millionaire.

“How much of a difference between your levels of happiness do you think there would be? … In fact, after a year, there would be hardly any difference in happiness levels! Hard to believe, but true. …. We massively overestimate the impact things will have on us, and the duration of that impact.

“… We sacrifice too much for successes that will provide too little in return. Success and happiness aren’t found in the outcome; they’re to be found in the journey.

“So commit to what you value the most, focus on what you love and on where you are strong. If our justification to ourselves for crazy busyness is a future success, we are giving up our effectiveness, relationships and wellbeing on a flawed belief.

“Work hard, but don’t sacrifice your present for the future; don’t cut too deep into what really matters for you: it just isn’t worth it. You’ll find your way to happiness whatever you do.”

“Busy” by Tony Crabbe. Check it out. It’s a great read.

I’ve read it once. Now I’m going to go back through it at a slower pace, and work out some strategies for my own life.