At present moment, you likely have a borderline panic-inducing never-ending to-do list in your head and accompanying thoughts of what you should be doing, who you need to call back and, inevitably, how stressed you are. It would help if you were more organized, both physically and mentally, wouldn’t it? It is a safe bet to say that there are things in your life that are currently serving little purpose other than to make it more of a scattered challenge than it already is. It may be time to clear the clutter for some much-needed clarity…
Career Clutter
A job can be a major source of clutter in the brain, especially if you don’t feel in control of your career and unsure about the next steps to take to achieve all you desire. Set yourself short and long-term goals and if you have a list that requires multi-tasking, write out daily tasks and cross them off the list as the day goes on. Don’t try to do too many things at once, an occurrence common especially among the entrepreneurial set. It is better to do a few things really well than doing a dozen that are not getting all of your effort. For a sometimes necessary dose of clarity, seek the advice of a business mentor and keep on top of job search sites, just so you know what else is out there, industry trends, competition and job opportunities alike.
Closet Clutter
If your closet was a little more organized, perhaps you would have an easier time getting ready in the morning. As a general rule, if you have not worn something in a year or so (with the exception of your assortment of special occasion formal wear), either get rid of it or designate it to a box or “storage closet” in another part of your home. Or organize a clothing swap with your friends or take those fabulous (but overworn) finds to a consignment shop. Make sure everything has a place and is easy to find – outfit, belts, shoes and accessories alike. Make an effort not to let that dry cleaning pile get too dense, it will make your closet seem less plentiful, inspiring you to shop for things you likely don’t need and are only going to clutter your closet further.
Email Clutter
Sometimes, the thought of logging onto your laptop is anything but enticing when you think of the countless emails that you have yet to answer and the junk mail that keeps accumulating. When you have an hour to yourself, sit down and make a point of tackling your email inbox once a week. Perhaps over a cappuccino or glass of wine, sort through each of your undoubtedly multiple email accounts, replying to missed emails and deleting the junk. In addition, maintain a list of people you need to email and cross each of the list in one sitting. Of course, to avoid email clutter in the first place, you could always make a point of replying to messages as soon as they come in, but with our crazy schedules and competing stimuli that may sound like a pipe dream at the moment.
Companion Clutter
Who really matters in your life? Determine the people who are not adding any value to your life and who are instead making it more difficult by weighing you down with their own whining, negativity and demands of your time. If a relationship with a family member, significant other or friend is negatively spilling into your every day life, occupying room in your brain and energy that should be spent elsewhere, you should address this immediately unless you want to perpetuate the cycle. Sometimes we need to take a stop back and evaluate where we should spend our time, tears and energy when it comes to people in our life. Be selfish as to who deserves your energy in the first place; but make an effort to prioritize and save time to connect with the people who matter the most.
Everyday Clutter
By everyday clutter,we mean the worries that run through our heads, concerning the past, present and future alike, that prevent us from living in the moment and may consume us. Take time to clear your mind by going for a long run, walk, or even drive. Dedicate time at the fitness centre and yoga studio entirely for yourself; don’t think about anything but the task at hand while at the gym or really take the time to connect with your breathing in yoga class. Your mind-clearing outlet does not have to be physical; it could involve listening to music, writing or even taking time to turn off your phone and relax with a book.