Socrates: The Barrenness of a Busy Life

Busyness is nothing new under the sun. It goes way back in time. Two millennia ago, the ancient philosopher Socrates warned us to question the purpose of our constant activity. He thought the potential hollowness it might conceal was too significant to ignore. “Beware the barrenness of a busy life,” he said. It still makes sense even now. He also said, “It is possible that a man could live twice as long if he didn’t spend the first half of his life acquiring habits that shortens the other half.”

But to understand Socrates’ perspective, let’s look back to the bustling marketplace of ancient Athens. It was a vibrant hub of commerce, politics, and philosophy. It thrived on social gatherings, debates, and public events. Socrates saw many citizens consumed by the pursuit of wealth, power, and pleasure, neglecting the true purpose of life — the pursuit of wisdom and self-knowledge to live well. He thought they were cultivating a barren orchard in their relentless busyness.

“I have not sought during my life to amass wealth and to adorn my body, but I have sought to adorn my soul with the jewels of wisdom, patience, and above all with a love of liberty,” he said.

Socrates famously questioned the Athenian elites. He challenged their perceptions about morality, virtue, and the good life. While he valued social interaction, Socrates criticised those who engaged in superficial conversations and activities lacking intellectual or moral depth. His warning transcends the Athenian context.

Now, fast forward to our 21st-century world. Socrates’ wisdom resonates louder than ever. Task and responsibility fatigue are growing concerns. We juggle careers, families, social obligations, and personal pursuits, often feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. The “always on” mindset is draining us. Work expands into every crevice of our lives, turning nights into extensions of the day. We check emails during dinner and work late into the night.

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