Clearing The Clutter Is Not Just For Your Desk
We've all heard the advice to tidy up our workspaces for better focus and productivity. There's truth to that, but as a psychiatrist and a physician, I can confidently say that the real game-changer I've seen is clearing the mental clutter.
A clean space can boost efficiency and productivity, but even the most pristine workspace can feel like chaos if your mind feels overwhelmed with never-ending to-do lists. If you're feeling this way, you aren't alone. In fact, an increasing number of adults are feeling more anxious. Data from the American Psychiatric Association showed that 43% of American adults said they were feeling more anxious than the year before, an increase from 37% in 2023.
While mental clarity won't address all the root causes of stress and anxiety at work, it can certainly create space for a healthier worldview and a more productive workday. Follow these evidence-based strategies to clear the clutter upstairs for a better work and home life.
1. Start with self-reflection.
Before we can clear anything, we need to understand what's taking up space in the mind. I recommend carving out a few quiet moments each day to check in with yourself, even if it's just five minutes during your morning commute.
Ask:
• What's weighing on me right now?
• What do I need to feel more at ease or in control?
• What am I carrying that isn't mine to hold?
You'd be surprised how often we internalize stressors like unrealistic expectations or other people's business priorities without realizing it. Reflecting on your needs helps you recognize what's truly important and what you can let go. For example, if you're panicking about a presentation that's due tomorrow, taking the time to zoom out on that concern may help you realize you have plenty of time to do your work and that it isn't worth agonizing over.
2. Set mental boundaries.
Just as you'd draw a line between your desk and someone else's, you should define your mental and emotional limits.
This might mean:
• Not checking work emails after hours.
• Saying 'no' to a project when your plate is already full.
• Letting go of the guilt when you take a well-deserved break.
Boundaries help filter out unnecessary noise and preserve your energy for what truly matters. They also protect you from burnout, which I've seen far too often in professionals who struggle to set healthy boundaries.
3. Simplify your inputs.
We live in a world of nonstop notifications and constant connectivity, at work and at home. While technology can be a blessing, it can also be mentally draining. Mental clutter often comes from overstimulation, so simplifying what you allow in can make room for clarity and calm.
Reduce the amount of information overwhelming your brain by:
• Turning off nonessential alerts.
• Limiting your time on social media, especially when you're already stressed.
• Creating "no-input" zones in your day. These are times when you don't consume news, text messages or email updates.
4. Declutter through action.
Sometimes, the best way to clear your mind is to tackle the nagging task you've been avoiding. I call these 'mental mess-makers.' They hang out in the background, quietly draining your focus and energy. Checking even one item off your list can restore a sense of control. Whether it's responding to one email or making that phone call you've put off all week, completing a task can feel like lifting a weight off your shoulders.
5. Make space for stillness.
Even high achievers need moments of stillness. In fact, high achievers especially need mental breathing room without extra noise. Stillness looks different for everyone. Fortunately, it doesn't mean you need to go on a seven-day silent retreat. In everyday life, stillness might look like:
• A quiet cup of coffee in the morning with no distractions.
• A brief walk outside the office without your phone.
• A five-minute breathing exercise at your desk.
You don't need an hour-long meditation to find peace, though I'm a big fan of those, too. Just a few moments of intentional quiet can reset your nervous system and create space for clearer thinking.
Find clarity, mindfully.
Clearing your desk may help you find that report you've been looking for, but you may need more to help you think more clearly. In my experience, actively simplifying your mind can help you live and work better. When your mind is clutter-free, you may be more present, thoughtful and resilient. Instead of starting your day organizing paperclips, pause and clear the mental clutter first. You may find that it can help you make better decisions and engage with others more mindfully.
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