There could be several reasons why your friend says he's busy, but you observe that he appears to be doing nothing. Here are some possibilities:
Perception: It's possible that your perception of what "doing nothing" looks like might differ from your friend's perspective. He could be engaged in activities that are not immediately apparent to you, such as thinking, reflecting, or engaging in tasks that don't require visible physical actions.
Procrastination or Avoidance: Your friend might be avoiding certain responsibilities or tasks and using the excuse of being busy to deflect from this reality. Procrastination can lead to a sense of being overwhelmed, making it difficult for your friend to manage his time effectively.
Lack of Transparency: People might not always share the full extent of their schedules or activities with others. Your friend might have personal reasons for not disclosing what he's actually doing during his claimed busy times.
Social Interaction: Sometimes, individuals may need time alone or a break from social engagements, even if they are not engaged in apparent activities. Your friend might be using the excuse of being busy to create some personal space or downtime.
Stress or Burnout: Your friend could genuinely be experiencing stress or burnout from other aspects of his life, making it challenging for him to handle additional commitments, even if it may not be evident to you.
Politeness: Saying "I'm busy" can be a socially acceptable way to decline an invitation or avoid discussing personal matters. It's possible your friend is using this response to maintain boundaries without providing specific reasons.
Time Management Issues: Your friend may struggle with time management and find it difficult to allocate time effectively between different tasks and activities.
It's essential to approach such situations with empathy and open communication. If you are concerned about your friend or his behavior, consider having an honest and supportive conversation. Express your observations and feelings without judgment, and try to understand his perspective. Remember that everyone has their struggles and challenges, and it's essential to be respectful of each other's boundaries and personal space.