“How are you?”

“Good. Busy. How are you?”

It’s an obligatory cycle.

But how often are we really “good” when we say that? How often is “busy” even an accurate reflection of our lives? Does posing the question, usually as we walk past someone, really communicate interest or value? Do we really want to know or give a real answer in the first place?

I find myself both frustrated and conditioned for this automatic exchange, these catchall phrases that don’t seem to add depth to our conversations and relationships…with others or ourselves.

Which is why I loved this blog post by Be More With Less:

Let’s stop telling each other how busy we are. That conversation isn’t helping us connect, or become less busy. Talking about busyness makes me feel busy, even when I’m not. Instead of “how are you?” I am going to ask people, “What was the best part of your day?” or “Who or what made you smile today?” or “What will you remember about this week?”

I can’t wait to add these questions to my daily life. To make time to really listen to the answers. To assume someone wants to hear mine.

Check out Courtney’s full post here for more good stuff about pushing back on busyness and living intentionally.