Coach's Corner: How to Clear a Cluttered Mind to Make Space for Gratitude
November kicks off the holiday season, which often brings along high expectations of a very festive and exciting time of year. Many of us, however, begin to feel anxious and overwhelmed instead of merry and bright. According to research, one of the most promising ways to fill your holiday season with cheer is actually to express gratitude. Derived from the Latin word gratia, gratitude means grace, graciousness or gratefulness- a thankful appreciation for what we have and acknowledging the goodness in our lives. Gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness, more positive emotions, improved health and stronger relationships.
In order to recognize the good that manifests in your own life, you must first clear the path from what is blocking your conscious and unconscious mind. Mental clutter often comes in the form of worry or fear and negative thoughts. When you send negativity out in the form of thoughts and actions, you will undoubtedly receive negative energy in return. You must first get rid of what you don’t want in order to make space for what you need. Mental clutter can also be unfinished projects, unhealthy relationships, addictive behaviors, physical pain or just mental chaos. In any form, clutter has a negative impact on your thoughts, energy and our effectiveness. When you can clear out the fear and feelings of lack, you will be able to attract gratitude and abundance into your life.
While there are many ways to clear mental chaos, here are a few of our tried and true favorites:
Clean up your space. A cluttered space will undoubtedly leave you feeling anxious. Clear away the unnecessary mess to feel calmer and more focused.
Evaluate your health. Neglecting to care for your own physical and emotional needs can lead to feelings of anxiousness and fear.
Take inventory of your relationships. Let go of the people that hold you back and nurture those relationships that fill you up.
Balance your finances. Be intentional about your financial health and well-being
Get outside. Take advantage of nature’s healing properties and enjoy the natural beauty of your surroundings.
Practicing gratitude is the simple act of appreciating what you have, in this very moment, instead of always reaching or hoping for the next best thing in the hopes of becoming happier. Gratitude helps to keep you grounded and focused instead of dissatisfied and wanting more. Just like any other mental or physical practice, the feelings of gratitude grow stronger with use and repetition.