In a modern world filled with endless distractions and obligations, busyness has become a badge of honor for many individuals. From juggling hectic work schedules to managing personal responsibilities, it seems as though being busy has become synonymous with success and importance. However, the 19th-century Danish philosopher Sren Kierkegaard would have undoubtedly criticized this obsession with busyness. For Kierkegaard, the relentless pursuit of constant activity was not a mark of virtue or wisdom but rather a symptom of an absurd existence. In this article, we will explore Kierkegaard’s insightful perspective on why busy people are ridiculous and how his philosophy can provide a valuable critique of our modern-day preoccupation with busyness.
The Absurdity of Modern Business
Kierkegaard, known for his philosophical treatises on existentialism, believed that busyness was a manifestation of the absurdity of human existence. He argued that the busy person’s constant rushing from one task to another reflects a refusal to confront the deeper questions of life. Instead of grappling with the meaning of existence or the nature of the self, the busy person drowns in a sea of constant activities to avoid confronting the emptiness and anxiety that accompany human life.
Furthermore, Kierkegaard saw busyness as a means of escaping from one’s true self. In his seminal work, “The Sickness Unto Death,” he explored the concept of despair and argued that true self-awareness could only be achieved through introspection and reflection. However, the busy individual, consumed by external demands and distractions, fails to engage in the necessary introspection that would lead to authentic self-awareness. This perpetual avoidance of inner reflection leads to a shallow and unfulfilling existence, rendering the busy person ridiculous in their futile attempts to distract themselves from the fundamental questions of life.
One of the underlying drivers of busyness, according to Kierkegaard, is the fear of boredom. Modern society seems to regard boredom as a dreadful state to be avoided at all costs, leading people to fill their lives with constant activity to escape its grasp. However, Kierkegaard saw boredom as an essential human experience that could pave the way for meaningful self-discovery and personal growth.
In his work “Either/Or,” Kierkegaard argued that boredom should not be feared but embraced. By embracing boredom, individuals can explore their inner thoughts and feelings, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves and their purpose in life. Unfortunately, modern society’s obsession with busyness has deprived many individuals of this opportunity, perpetuating a superficial existence devoid of genuine meaning.
The Cult of Productivity
In today’s fast-paced world, productivity has become an almost sacred virtue. The busier one appears, the more productive and successful they seem to be. However, Kierkegaard questioned the true value of this relentless pursuit of productivity. He believed that true meaning and purpose in life could not be measured by external achievements or the sheer number of tasks completed but rather by the authenticity of one’s existence.
Kierkegaard argued that the modern cult of productivity often led to a form of spiritual emptiness where individuals sacrificed their inner lives and relationships on the altar of success and efficiency. As a result, they become disconnected from their own humanity and the richness of human experience, rendering their obsession with productivity absurd and ultimately meaningless.
Kierkegaard lamented the loss of contemplation and spirituality in a world dominated by busyness. He believed that true fulfillment and understanding could only be found through a deep engagement with one’s inner self and a genuine connection with the spiritual realm. However, the busy person, trapped in a whirlwind of external demands, fails to cultivate this vital aspect of their being.
For Kierkegaard, spirituality and introspection were crucial components of a meaningful life. Without the time and space for quiet contemplation and the pursuit of the transcendent, individuals risked losing touch with their own spiritual nature, relegating themselves to a shallow and fragmented existence.
Ren Kierkegaard’s critique of busyness provides a thought-provoking perspective on our modern obsession with constant activity. He viewed busyness as an escape from existential questions, a fear of boredom, and a distraction from true self-awareness. Kierkegaard’s philosophy challenges us to reflect on the absurdity of our busy lives and consider the deeper aspects of human existence that may be overlooked in our pursuit of productivity.
In a world that often values busyness over genuine fulfillment, Kierkegaard reminds us of the importance of introspection, contemplation, and the pursuit of a meaningful life. By embracing moments of stillness, cultivating self-awareness, and connecting with our spiritual nature, we can transcend the ridiculousness of busyness and discover a deeper sense of purpose and authenticity in our lives.
