Why It's Important to Keep Yourself Busy

The human brain is a complex organ, an intricate system that as a whole keeps our bodies functioning, allowing us to learn, comprehend, and discover the world around us. Thus, it only makes sense that we make use of this amazing part of our bodies, and use it to be productive and get things done.

Research has consistently shown that people who keep themselves busy are the happiest. But why? What is it about a lifestyle, that is probably racked with stress, but is also very satisfying at the same time?

In my first semester at SU, I took a light credit load (16 credits). I had 3-4 classes per day, and had about 2 hours of homework per night. For me, it was a pretty comfortable semester. However, comfort isn't always a good thing, because it makes us lazy. And I got really lazy. I never felt exhausted by the sheer amount of work, and most of the all-nighters I pulled were the product of extreme procrastination (We've all been there.). Because of this, although I was getting all my work done and not overworking myself, I didn't do as well academically as I would have liked.

This semester, I decided to change my lifestyle. Currently, I'm taking 19 credits, am in the SU Renee Crown Honor Program, and am involved in a few activities. And I've never been happier.

Yes, I definitely have a lot more work. Sure, there are moments when I want to pull at my hair in frustration because I have so much to do that I don't know where to start. But every night I go to bed feeling productive and happy, because I know that I'm working hard and doing my best. This business has improved my academic progress as well, and I find myself doing much better in the classes I took this semester as opposed to last semester. I've barely missed any classes, and have started waking (and sleeping) earlier.

It may seem more attractive to do just enough, and know your limits. However, that's the problem- you don't know where your limits are until you really challenge yourself! There are some individuals in the world that will never push themselves to the point of mental exhaustion, and thus never embrace their full potential. And that really is a pity!

I'm not a preacher, but I see life as a crossroads, with two paths diverging at an intersection. You can take the main road, and live a life of simplicity, ordinariness and plain commonality.  Or you can quicken your pace and take the high road, and discover all that you are capable of.