FROM THE BLOG

I can’t take it anymore – 5 ways to reset your mind today

Posted by Tarah Carlow on October 8, 2015

It happens to the best of us. Despite our best efforts, our business and personal lives often collide- and often in a “not so pretty” way.  In this day and age, demands are prevalent, pressure is high and things can often feel overwhelming.  I have done a lot of work on slowing down and figuring out how to live and work efficiently and happily rather than feeling like I am running around with my head cut off (not a pretty visual, I know). I’ve put together 5 things that I have gathered through research and trial and error- and even a few Dr. Oz episodes.  Some of these may work for you or maybe for some of you, all will work.  The key is to give a few a try and see what is right for you.

  1. Everyone knows about to-do lists, but rather than focus on the ever-growing list of things that you need to focus on, instead focus on what you can ignore. You have probably already written out a to-do list.  If writing out another whole list is distracting, simply cross through certain non-urgent items that can be ignored or highlight the most important.  Lists can serve the opposite purpose sometimes and be too daunting.  This way you deal with your highlighted items first and work on the others as time allows- hopefully in a non-frenzied way since your highlighted items are done.
  2. Before you leave the house, take something small but meaningful with you. It can be anything from a photo to a piece of jewelry. Any small token that has some personal significance will do, as long as it reminds you what’s really important in life. I have a necklace that I don’t leave the house without because it grounds me. Don’t call me crazy before you give it a try.
  3. When you feel yourself getting overwhelmed, try shutting your brain off for just 5 minutes. Clearing your mind of internal clutter and focusing on your breathing will help you calm down and refocus on the task at hand.  Deep breaths really do work to reset your thoughts.
  4. Jot down three things you’re truly grateful for in life. This will shift your priorities and help you see what really brings you joy and generally makes your days better. You might even surprise yourself with some seemingly small things that help you see the bigger picture – like getting your coffee just right, avoiding traffic, or finding that perfect parking spot.
  5. By reflecting on the highs and lows of your day and evaluating what worked and what didn’t, you’ll be able to slowly change your behaviors to incorporate more highs and fewer lows.

This will hopefully make your days much more enjoyable going forward.  Remember, baby steps will one day turn into a whole new routine and a better, more efficient and grounded YOU.

See you next week,

 

Posted by Tarah Carlow Senior Vice President, Marketing & Advisor Loyalty