Stressed? Here are four keys to an emotional clean sweep
Every once in a while, I find myself in kind of a huff — a little overwhelmed with all that’s going on around me. I work, have kids, am in school, in a relationship, have extended family — the list keeps going. So much upkeep going on can make it really difficult to stay centered and not effing lose it.
I was thinking through things a few days ago, about how to burn off some of this emotional load I carry with me and realized I have to be intentional with the things I let into my life, as well as the things I let go of.
Remember that old TLC show “Clean Sweep”? It’s kind of addicting, watching professionals help these people declutter their homes and get a fresh start, all with some TV-induced drama sprinkled in. I decided to incorporate their house decluttering system into my mental decompression.
This can be done by making a list, meditating, or having a conversation with a partner or someone close. It’s about finding the thing that helps you get out of your head and into the open.
Here are four keys to an emotional clean sweep:
(1) Note the keeper pile. The must-haves in your life.
What are the things you really need in your life? What do you need to survive? Hold on to things like self-care routines, quality time with loved ones, and other household tasks or projects. Designate time for each so you are able to give your all to what you’re doing and you aren’t distracted by what’s next. This keeps you present and in the moment.
Don’t feel discouraged if this is difficult to implement at first. It takes practice and intention, and you’ll get better at it with time.
(2) Note the sell pile. Keep it all moving.
This is where I would categorize the career/business thoughts. All the things I’m carrying around go here, including side hustles and how to get better at my career. What can I do to maximize my efforts at work while minimizing stress? Do I have an idea for added income?
The mental load of finances can also go here, but needs to stay in its space. We can’t always be thinking about work, so make sure you can turn it off at some point.
(3) Note the junker pile. Toss these aside.
I can think of hundreds of things in my mind to toss out – negative self-talk, defeatist thinking, cumbersome to-do lists, to name a few. I had this elderly psychology professor who always talked about getting rid of your “stinkin’ thinkin’”. It is so cheesy, but so beneficial.
My son struggles with school and hates literally every minute of it. Our conversations typically consist of me reminding him that he has the power to choose to have a good day and a good attitude, and this power only grows in us as adults. Think of the things you could do, the peace you would feel if you tossed out that negative mental garbage and never picked it up again.
(4) Note the helper pile. Donate these to someone else.
You will need to incorporate others in this portion. While not an original facet of the show, incorporating a give-away pile had many benefits.
This is where I would designate all the items that can be delegated. Got a load of laundry that needs to be folded while dinner is on the stove? Get if off your mind by asking someone else to do it. Sure, that is a simple example but it is great practice for when life gets trickier. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; none of us can do it alone.
Off-loading tasks you’ve taken personal responsibility for can feel selfish, but really that’s a good thing. To be selfish means you are able to be centered, caring for your Self, and it is out of this space that you are able to love and care for others better.
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This story was originally published December 3, 2017 at 9:00 PM with the headline "Stressed? Here are four keys to an emotional clean sweep."