Revealed: Top 25 things people do when they're too busy

The signs you’re too busy include muddling up words, getting days of the week mixed up and feeling like the workday is never going to end.

Accidentally leaving your phone at home and waking up late were other tell-tale signs of having too much on your plate.

Wanting an early night, skipping dinner, and feeling like it’s a long week – by Tuesday – also featured on the list.

As did calling a colleague by the wrong name, forgetting to brush teeth, and considering a nap at the desk.

And more than half of respondents admitted to being constantly on the run from meeting to meeting, and many confessed to skipping lunch twice a week due to being too busy.

A struggle to take a break

The research commissioned by natural energy drink Purdey’s, of 2,000 workers, found that two thirds have been told by someone else to take a break, though only one in six taken the advice on board.

Three quarters also said they struggle to find time for themselves, with 48 per cent feeling like there’s not enough hours in the day.

A spokesperson from the brand, which teamed up with Radio 1’s Chris Stark to encourage workers to take a break, said: “When life gets busy, sometimes you’ve got to take some time out to refresh your body and refocus the mind before diving back into the madness.

“The research has shown an incredible number of workers are pushing themselves hard, without taking a moment to themselves to reenergise.

“Some people live for a fast-paced lifestyle so it’s all about making sure there’s a good balance.”

Finding the right balance

Nearly four in ten prioritise others ahead of themselves – while just under a third put work over their wellbeing, and nearly one in five often work late into the evening.

As a result, 47 per cent struggle to manage their work-life balance.

Aimlessly staring at their phone and sending embarrassing emails in error were things that have happened in the workplace due to being busy.

One in six have even admitted to dozing off at their desk and 44 per cent have missed a social event due to their hectic schedule.

On the hunt for a boost, 47 per cent have poured themselves a coffee, while more than a quarter have opened an energy drink, according to the OnePoll data.

During a busy week, 43 per cent find it difficult to focus on the task at hand with going to bed early, stepping out for a quiet walk and listening to music the main ways adults looked to rejuvenate themselves.

More than six in ten said it’s important to be able to get a quick and easy energy lift during a busy day.

Chris Stark added: “Balance is key but isn’t always possible – constantly feeling on the run is a familiar feeling for us all!

“But there are lots of ways to get yourself through those busy days. The study has shown people are always looking for quick and easy boost.”