Decluttering Your Mind
Wednesday, July 15, 2020 - Joe Kiedinger
Our brains are glorious, mysterious things, aren’t they? They store all of our lives’ memories, allow our bodies to operate, release happy chemicals like oxytocin and endorphins and house all our emotions.
Wouldn’t you say our minds deserve an occasional spring cleaning in order to remain in tip-top condition?
Look at your brain like a closet. Yearly, many of us go through each hanging shirt and sweater and bag up unworn items to pass down or donate. The same should happen for your brain. Set aside some time this week to give yours a good cleaning out!
Where to start? Grab a paper and pen, set a timer for five minutes and write down everything you can think of that’s been on your mind—it could be family members, friends, teams, conversations, work projects, hobbies, habits, to-do items… anything. Now, go through with a highlighter and mark anything that gives you a feeling of confusion, frustration, anger or humiliation.
These are sources of negativity in your life, and they aren’t serving you. Are there tasks at work that could be passed down to newcomers who would love a new opportunity? Are there toxic relationships you can say goodbye to? They’re taking up space in your mind and not helping you to flourish as a human being. It’s time to say, “No, thank you,” and focus your attention on the positives you just listed. Following them will lead you to your best self.
JOE KIEDINGER
ACTION PLAN: Did you know today is National Give Something Away Day? In the spirit of today, we’re sharing this free Decluttering Checklist to help you get started in not only clearing out your mind, but also your home, your workspace and your routines.