From words of appreciation to words that spur them on: phrases to say to busy people
Isn’t there always someone around you who’s constantly busy—including yourself?
If you’re a student, club activities and studies can keep you busy; if you’re working, your job might be demanding.
Beyond daily routines, people striving toward their dreams and goals—or those supporting them—carry a kind of busyness that others can’t always see.
So this time, we’ve put together a list of words you can say to someone who’s busy.
From phrases that acknowledge daily fatigue to words that give a gentle push to keep going, we hope you’ll find expressions that perfectly fit your situation or the person you want to encourage!
From words of appreciation to words that give a push! Things to say to busy people (1–10)
Don’t forget to love yourself.Søren Kierkegaard
As you keep working toward your goal, it’s natural to feel the urge to deny yourself when results don’t come.
Even in such painful moments, you should treat yourself with care—that becomes the strength to keep challenging yourself.
These are the words of Søren Kierkegaard, a Danish philosopher.
He reminds us not to forget the importance of loving ourselves; that mindset helps us bring out our abilities and seize results.
Recognizing yourself also seems to foster the strong will to keep moving forward without giving up.
To climb a steep hill, you must first walk slowly.William Shakespeare
Here is a famous quote by William Shakespeare, known as a great playwright.
This saying reminds us that when aiming for a big goal, it’s important to proceed step by step without rushing.
For example, students preparing for entrance exams start by learning the basics little by little, and eventually build the ability to pass.
Similarly, in work projects, steadily completing small tasks one by one leads to significant results.
Even in our busy daily lives, moving forward at our own pace may be the shortest path to success.
When one door is closed, many more are open.Bob Marley
When you experience failure and find the road ahead blocked, it can feel like there’s no path left to take.
In times like that, it’s important to widen your perspective and look at the world more broadly; then other paths begin to appear—so teaches the words of Bob Marley, known as a pioneer of reggae.
He reminds us that there isn’t only one way forward, and that if we don’t give up, we can move toward other possibilities.
It also conveys the importance of a positive mindset that seeks hope even in the midst of despair.
Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.Steve Jobs
Even if you have an intuition within yourself, you can’t be sure it’s truly correct.
These are the words of Steve Jobs, known as the co-founder of Apple, conveying that even when you can’t see whether that intuition is right, it’s important to believe in it and keep moving forward.
He tells us that following your heart and intuition requires courage, and that very courage is the force that turns intuition into the right answer.
It also conveys the importance of acting on your heart and intuition with courage—and doing so with a sense of speed.
If you are tired, sit for a while on the grass by the roadside and watch the passersby. People will never go all that far.Ivan Turgenev
The journey of striving to achieve our goals sometimes involves suffering, and if we just keep pushing through, our hearts may get worn down.
Here are words from Ivan Turgenev that gently discourage that kind of painful perseverance and remind us that it is sometimes important to rest.
Taking a break can make us feel anxious, as if we’re being left behind, but in reality that rarely happens, and rest can actually improve our efficiency.
By not rushing and looking around you, you may discover something new that brings you even closer to your goals.
It’s okay to be kinder to yourself.Adrienne Rich
When life gets busy, some of us may find it hard to make time for ourselves.
These words from the American poet Adrienne Rich remind us of the importance of being gentle with ourselves sometimes, without blame.
For example, when you’re tired, rather than forcing yourself to be perfect, it may be important to indulge a little—watch a favorite movie or take a long, relaxing bath.
By being kind to yourself, your heart may feel lighter and you may find new energy.
Give yourself a little rest and kindness from time to time.
Once you’ve done everything you can, leave the results to others.Golda Meir
Here’s an inspiring quote from former Israeli Prime Minister Golda Meir that gives courage to people who are doing their best.
For example, you might be pushing forward a major project at work or holding a position of responsibility on a team.
When you find yourself trying to carry everything on your own, remember these words.
After you’ve done everything you can—planning and preparing thoroughly—it’s important to trust in others’ support and in the outcome.
It’s okay to leave the result in other people’s hands, even if the effort was yours.
Don’t try to shoulder the outcome alone; by taking a step back, you may be able to create an even better result.