Do you find that nonproductive thoughts are running over and over through your head. Are you feeling “stuck” and unable to move forward or plan ahead?
It might be time for a mental reset to clear your mind, organize your thoughts, and point you toward progress and accomplishment. Here are eight ideas to help you quiet the brain noise and get your mind back on track — easy enough to do in just a few minutes at your desk at work, in the car, or before you lay down in bed at night!
Pssst... Here are a few printable planners I thought you might like!
1. Move around.
Simply standing up, stretching, gazing out the window, or stepping out the door puts you in motion and helps you move past he thought loop that currently has you a bit paralyzed. Grab some water, make a call, or put a cool cloth on your neck.
2. Change your breathing.
For two minutes, try inhaling slowly through your nose for a count of five. Then, exhale through your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat this several times to pull your body out of stress mode.
3. Transfer your thoughts.
Make a written list of everything that’s stressing you out at the moment. No need to put things in order or make them make sense. Just empty your brain.
4. Articulate.
Give yourself a talking-to for a few minutes. Remind yourself that no one has everything in life figured out and that it’s okay to feel frightened, disappointment, or bogged down. You can never make too many fresh starts!
5. Prioritize.
Of the things that are bothering you right now, decide what needs to be addressed right away. What can wait a bit to be tackled? What isn’t your responsibility at all?
6. Compartmentalize.
Avoid viewing your current mindset as all-encompassing. Rather than stress about how you’re going to make your life better, consider what positive step you can take tomorrow.
7. Slow down.
Resolve not to make wholesale changes or major decisions about your life while you are feeling down in the dumps. Acting impulsively when in a bad frame of mind rarely yields positive results.
8. Be kind to yourself.
Think about what you enjoy doing for relaxation and restoration. Choose a pastime that’s unrelated to the thoughts that are bogging you down. Read, draw, take a nap, bake something, or watch a favorite show.
“Within you, there is a stillness and a sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.” — Hermann Hesse
A great way to begin your mental reset is to prioritize self care.
Then, follow with a manageable plan of action. Remind yourself that absolutely nothing on your to-do list has to be finished before putting in work to get your mind back on track.
If you’re anxious to restore clearer, more positive thinking, you can use the above ideas at any time. Doing so will help you banish those negative thought loops and regain control of things.
Here's to more relaxing, stress-free days ahead!
