Business vs. Busyness: Which one are you running?

accountability awareness clarity income producing activities planning productivity time blocking Aug 04, 2025

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Let's sprinkle some magic on your path to entrepreneurial success. If you're a driven woman with a thirst for adventure and the dream of a business that fuels your wanderlust, you're in the right place. Today, I want to delve into a subject that might ruffle a few feathers, including my own: the blurred lines between being busy and truly working on your business.

Let's Talk About Busyness vs. Business

Do you ever feel like "busyness" is lurking around the corner, deceiving you with its near-identical spelling to "business"? It's a common struggle, and I've found myself pondering this over the summer. There's been this nagging voice in my head, reminding me to question: "Lindsay, are you being busy, or are you genuinely working on your business?" It's possible to do both simultaneously, but if your to-do list is overflowing and your bank account isn't reflecting your efforts, then this episode is tailor-made for you!

Understanding the Illusion of Busyness

Here's the deal: busyness can feel productive. You're constantly on the move, juggling tasks, and your planner is bursting at the seams. But truth bomb alert—you're not actually moving the needle in your business. I've been there, and maybe you have too. Reorganizing Google Drive yet again or spending hours choosing fonts that only a dozen people will see is a trap I've fallen into myself. You might adore learning (guilty as charged!), but the transformation happens when you implement what you learn.

Fear and Avoidance: The Roots of Busyness

Often, busyness stems from fear—fear of being visible, of failing, or even of success. It’s also about avoiding the meaty tasks that would truly drive growth. Let me remind you: busyness can be procrastination in disguise. If any of this resonates, remember you're not alone in this. The path from busyness to business is lined with clarity and action.

Turning the Spotlight on True Business Activities

Identifying what constitutes real business work is essential. This is the kind of work that feels uncomfortable but is result-driven. Tasks like making offers, recording podcasts, or following up with leads are not always glamorous, but these are the weight-bearing beams of your business. Ask yourself: is this task aligned with a tangible business goal? Will it help you gain clients or generate sales?

Breaking Free from the Busy Loop

Now, let's talk gut-check questions. Are your tasks tied directly to your goals? Are you doing things out of sheer comfort or because they genuinely work? If you stopped doing a particular task, would anyone else notice? These reflections can save you from the busy trap.

Simple Shifts to Work ON Your Business

1. Prioritize Income-Producing Activities: Make these your morning coffee, indispensable. Be sure to tackle at least one each day.

2. Batch Admin Tasks: Dedicate a specific time each week to manage admin work, freeing up your focus for impactful tasks.

3. Money-Making Time Blocks: Guard this time with your life! It’s like your Disney Lightning Lane for income—invaluable and non-negotiable.

4. Celebrate Action over Perfection: Remember, messy marketing beats silent perfection every time.

5. Find Accountability Buddies or Coaches: Whether it's a biz bestie or a mastermind, ensure someone’s there to lovingly challenge you.

6. Plan Ahead: My Sundays (or sometimes Fridays) are perfect for mapping out the upcoming week, ensuring I hit the ground running come Monday morning.

Lastly, sprinkle some pixie dust and envision your business as a Disney Park—all the fun and sparkle, but with a clear focus on what truly matters. You're the fairy godmother of your business—don’t get stuck sweeping castle steps.

Wrapping Up with Action

Now, let's put this into action! Write down your top three goals for the upcoming month and identify one task for each that nudges you closer to achieving these aims. And if you crave more guidance, check out my free travel agent marketing starter kit at lindsaydollinger.com/links. It’s time to escape the busyness illusion and lay the cornerstone of a business that liberates your spirit, injects fun, and keeps those flights booked.

Until next time, keep sprinkling pixie dust and remember—you were born for more than just staying busy. Let's build the business that delivers freedom, fun, and flights, together. See you soon!

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