In today’s busy world, it’s easy for our minds to become cluttered with an array of thoughts, worries, and distractions which can often feel overwhelming. Mental clutter can lead to stress, reduced productivity, and a general sense of discontent. As someone who works as both a coach and professional organiser, I see first-hand how mental clutter can manifest itself in the world around us. If this feels like you, here are some tips to help you begin your journey to declutter your mind and achieve a sense of clarity and calm.

1. Practice Mindfulness

There is a lot of power in focusing on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. Simple practices like mindful breathing or meditation can help you become more aware of your thoughts and let go of unnecessary mental clutter. Spending just 10 minutes a day in mindfulness exercises will help clear your mind and reduce stress. I find that even something simple like taking five deep breaths at the start of the day can really get my mind in the right space for what lies ahead.

2. Prioritise and Organise

A cluttered mind often stems from trying to juggle too many tasks at once. Make a habit of prioritising your tasks and organising them using tools like to-do lists or digital planners. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable steps, and tackle them one at a time. This approach not only clears your mind but also boosts productivity. I start each day by thinking through the day and writing down the three most important things that I MUST do that day (however small). I also capture anything else it would be good to get done, and things I need to remember (kids pick up times, important calls etc.) I find that just the simple act of thinking through the day and writing a short daily action plan helps declutter my mind and identify what I need to focus on.

3. Limit Information Intake

In the digital age, we are bombarded with information from multiple sources. Set boundaries on your information intake by limiting time spent on social media, news, and other digital platforms and think about what notifications you have set up on your phone. You certainly don’t want to miss the call from school about the sick child, but you might not want the constant ping of your friend’s emojis. Designate specific times for checking emails and messages, and avoid multitasking to keep your mind focused and uncluttered. It drives my husband crazy but I will often have my phone on silent when I need to do more focussed work.

4. Declutter Your Physical Space

Your physical environment greatly impacts your mental state. Take time to declutter your workspace and living areas. A tidy, organised space can lead to a clearer, more focused mind. Get rid of items that no longer serve you and create a space that promotes calm and productivity. If this task feels overwhelming, start with your desk, or a drawer. Breaking it down into manageable chunks can really help. Remember that if you pick out just three things per day that no longer serve you, that’s over a thousand things across a year.

5. Practice Self-Care

Taking care of your mental and physical well-being is crucial for a clear mind. We all know that we need to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and eat a balanced diet but it isn’t always that easy. If nothing else, then try and engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether it’s reading, walking, or spending time with friends.

Decluttering your mind is a continuous process that requires intentional effort and practice. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can create a mental space that is clear, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way. If you need more help then please do book an introductory call with me for a 30 minute no obligation discussion.

This article was written by  Hannah Harrison a Career Coach and one of our partner coaches who empowers women to feel more in control of their life and career, to build systems and habits to help them think and work smarter and reach their potential. You can get in touch via her profile page.

July 26, 2024