In recent weeks, I’ve heard a specific type of comment a number of times: “I don’t know how you get it all done”.
This is ironic, considering some people don’t understand how busy you can be working at home.
But it’s true. As background, here are the projects (that I can remember), that I’m currently involved in:
- my blogging book
- microsoft course on time and task management
- another microsoft course on the same topic, this one’s longer though
- my podcast (which I WILL be updating 
)
- my company
- my blogs, specifically The Wealthy Blogger
- interviews & speaking
- several new business ideas and ventures which aren’t public yet, but are eating time (you know who you are)
So, to sum up. I’m busy. But I generally don’t feel like I’m overworked. I do work 12-16 hour days, 7 days a week. Sometimes I collapse in exhaustion, but generally my overworking (for now) is based on stuff I’m interested in being a part of. It’s good, and I enjoy it.
But, at the same time, there’s a very big realization coming that only spending 2-3 hours a day with my family isn’t the best way to go about my life. Part of the reason I’m working my ass off right now is to make ends meet due to some unexpected expenses (note: some people have blow the above post out of proportion, it’s not like I’m eating Ramen Noodles for every meal!).
So, the real question is “when is busy too busy?”
Most of the things that are taking the most time right now (the top 3 items) are short-term things. They aren’t going to last more than 2 months. I can deal with working my ass off for 2 months, especially if it means I don’t need to work more than 20 hours a week for the rest of the year.
[note: to which my wife would say "riiight, like you're only going to work 20 hours a week, even if you could!!!"]
What do you think? Are you too busy? Should you cut down? Should I?
It’s an interesting season. A lot of bloggers are in this state. And it’s a hard question to answer, but I’m happy for some critique and criticism. Perspective’s always a good thing!
April 18th, 2005 at 9:42 pm
[...] h on the work/blog plate. It started last Tuesday with a post from Jeremy Wright entitled ‘When is Busy Too Busy?’ at Ensight. Jeremy lays out what he’ [...]
April 12th, 2005 at 10:16 am
Busy in and of itself is too busy. You can’t have both.
April 12th, 2005 at 10:38 am
I’d like to know about the two Microsoft time and task management courses you are taking. Are they available on the Microsoft eLearning or the Microsoft Partner University site?
April 12th, 2005 at 10:46 am
It’s funny that you post about this, because I’ve been having the same issues recently. I’ve been working on a lot of different projects, both work and non-work related, and it’s taking up quite a bit of my time, but it just feels right. Two of the projects are film and television related projects which could pay big dividends in the long run, so I can see the inherent value in them from day one. Plus, they really tweak my creative side, which is in constant need of attention.
As far as the family thing goes, I’ll tell you what works for me. I know that my girlfriend appreciates the time we spend together because it’s “quality” time. My attention is focused on her and it’s really great. And to be brutally honest, I find I surround myself with people who don’t really care if I’m around a lot. My mere presence means nothing to them. But when I am around, they want my attention, respect, trust, love and humor. I gladly give it to them no questions asked and things just seem to work themselves out.
Great post,
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April 12th, 2005 at 10:46 am
I think leading a full life should energize you. If you started to feel drained or overtired, you’re probably too busy.
Also.. I don’t have a family, but my Dad says have young children passes you by really fast.
April 12th, 2005 at 11:13 am
I’m working 12-16 hours a day, 7 days a week just like you right now, but I’m finally working at building something for myself instead of working FOR someone else.
I’m having a blast, the days fly by and I’m more energized than I’ve been in years. I think it all depends on what you’re busy with.
I couldn’t do this this way if I had kids or a wife who didn’t believe in me. Then I’d need to balance it in another way. Everyone’s situation is going to be different.
April 12th, 2005 at 11:26 am
Great Going Jeremy. Keep in up. We all are in the the same boat. Need to work and put a slab of meat on the table too ..but then again 3-4 hours of add on bloggin make it hardly any time for play eh ??
But hey.. we do our best correct ?? Yeah, we should catch up for a beer soon ..maybe week of the 25th ?
April 16th, 2005 at 2:09 am
When is busy too busy?
Jeremy Wright has published a post that asks when busy is too busy. I have a couple projects on the go at the moment as well which I work on, in addition to my day job (which has kept me unusually busy the last couple weeks).