Written for EO by Don Scott, who applies 35 years’ experience in business and finance with a master’s degree in psychology to explore the path to meaningful change.

We equate being busy as being virtuous. When we’re maxed out, it feels safe. It must be productive. (Or is it?) It’s a badge of courage, honor or something …

I work with successful CEOs, entrepreneurs and founders who typically have one thing in common: They’re all slammed. People who are successful in their careers often arrive innocently at this sense of busy being best. Many of them grew up with hard-working parents who encouraged putting in the time to do your best.