We have all experienced that overwhelming feeling—our minds filled with swirling ideas, to-do lists, and anxieties. If our brains are full, we need to declutter them so we can relax and feel productive. To help with this, I created a guide called “Brain Dump.” I hope this guide provides the direction you need to write down everything on your mind, organize it on paper, and manage your tasks in your calendar.
Transfer Thoughts to Paper
By transferring our thoughts and ideas onto paper, we can gain a new perspective. Those important thoughts and tasks require action for us to release them. Often, when we write things down or schedule them in our calendar, we realize that some tasks may be less significant than we initially thought, while others may be more substantial than we anticipated. Regardless, writing things down is an effective technique for clearing out what we don’t need, taking action on what matters, and ultimately moving forward. You’ll feel more productive as a result.
Prioritize
This guide also assists with prioritization. You can only choose three tasks to add to your calendar at a time, as trying to tackle them all can be overwhelming. By focusing on just a few tasks, you increase the likelihood of completing them. This approach helps you identify what’s truly important. You may need to make some tough choices, but if a task continues to occupy your thoughts even after you’ve set it aside, it may indicate that it should be addressed sooner rather than later.
Start With a Brain Dump
To start, write everything down that is taking up space in your head. It can be an idea, a task, or anything. Don’t think. Just dump. If there isn’t enough space on the page use a second sheet. Don’t worry if you forgot something. It will probably come to you later and you can add it then.
Pick 1-3 Favorites
Once you have everything written down, choose 1 to 3 of your favorite tasks to focus on this week or this month. I recommend giving yourself more than a day to complete three tasks, as it can be overwhelming to try to accomplish so much in one day.
Write Each Step
Now that you have selected 1 to 3 tasks, think about what it will take to complete them. Remember that one task may involve several steps. Even seemingly simple tasks can require multiple actions. For example, sending a package in the mail may involve obtaining a box and packing materials, getting an address, and then taking it to UPS.
Add Steps to Your Calendar
I suggest adding each step to your calendar and spreading them out over different days according to your schedule. Once you have all your steps in your calendar you can rest well knowing your tasks will get accomplished. Once you have accomplished one you can add another.
For more fun, do your brain dump with a friend. Each of you can help the other identify the important tasks, hold each other accountable, and celebrate your wins together!
If your brain is full, and you need help decluttering it I hope you enjoy using this guide. I am always open to feedback. If you have questions or suggestions please let me know.
Now start decluttering that brain! Download the guide here.
