Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? People today are busier and have less free time than in the past. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer. I firmly agree that people today are busier and enjoy less free time compared to the past. Although modern technology and living standards have improved, rising expectations, blurred work-life boundaries, and the pressure to stay competitive have significantly reduced leisure time. To begin with, modern jobs often demand constant availability. Unlike in the past when work ended after office hours, today’s professionals are expected to respond to emails and messages even late at night. Smartphones, once tools of convenience, now tether people to their responsibilities around the clock. For instance, my cousin, who works in IT, often receives urgent client requests during dinner or while on vacation. Such scenarios would have been rare two decades ago. Moreover, the modern lifestyle encourages multitasking and overcommitment. People are expected to excel not only at work, but also in personal development, social life, fitness, and family roles. This leads to packed schedules and reduced rest time. In contrast, people in earlier generations led simpler lives, with clearer separation between work and leisure. My grandfather, for example, finished his farming work by sunset and spent his evenings reading or relaxing with family. Finally, today’s culture often equates busyness with success. Many individuals feel guilty when resting, fearing they are falling behind. Social media reinforces this mindset, as people constantly compare themselves to others who seem more productive. As a result, even free time feels mentally occupied. In conclusion, although modern advancements were supposed to give people more freedom, they have ironically led to greater busyness. The pressure to perform, connect, and achieve in every aspect of life has sharply reduced the time available for true relaxation.