Dr. Mac Powell on How to Get Happy by Decluttering Your Mind

Most of the clutter that we have in our lives exists between our ears. Dwelling on concerns and problems without taking any action can make problems seem even worse, draining us of energy we need to accomplish what could help transform our lives. In this article, Dr. Mac Powell discusses some strategies to help create more happiness while turning worries into wisdom. 

Start a Journal

Journaling is a great habit that helps your mind regroup, relax, and move thoughts into a more orderly cognitive structure. The physical act of writing helps move persistent and negative thoughts out of your daily working memory and helps free up your brain's resources so that you're much more likely to enjoy your downtime. Daily journaling reduces anxiety and is often an excellent resource for managing some of the negative thoughts that can lead to depression. Your writing skills and formatting aren't nearly as necessary as your ability to reflect and be honest about your thoughts and feelings. Just start with the physical act of writing down what you're seeing, feeling, and doing, and the rest of the process will come naturally. 

Declutter Your Workspace to Declutter Your Mind

Simple and routine tasks are excellent vehicles to help clear your mind and reduce stress. One of the most effective methods is merely cleaning and organizing your workspace when your workday ends. You will help you mind transition away from work tasks at the end of the day, and a clean desk will help your mind kick off a new day the next morning. Consider organizing your workspace by removing unnecessary clutter and distractions. A clean and minimalized desktop helps your mind focus on work tasks and reduces frustration. 

Control and Limit Your Media Intake

The stimulation of social media, television, and email can severely impair your ability to relax and declutter your mind. Consider the hours and hours most of us spend online with social media, videos, news, blogs, and let's not even begin to think about how many hours we spend on cat and dog videos!. Information overload is a real thing, and low-quality input can clog up your thinking and creativity. What we might think of as low stimulus or harmless content prevents us from consolidating and organizing our thoughts. Set limits on your media intake and learn to be selective about what types of media you feed your mind.

Be Physical to Give Your Mind a Break

Your mind benefits tremendously when your body takes over. When you exercise, whether an intense workout or a leisurely walk, your brain has an opportunity to focus on your body's physical wellbeing and performance. Everything you do that requires physical activity helps your mind declutter so you can focus on work tasks when you are back at your desk. Spend time everyday walking or doing some form of active movement.

About Dr. Mac Powell

Dr. Mac Powell is an executive in the world of higher education and works to develop strategies for the growth and development of the community. He has a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Missouri and is the Chair of ACE Commission on Education Attainment and Innovation and Council of Applied Master's Programs in Psychology. Dr. Powell is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant for the Association of Applied Sport Psychology and applies his knowledge of performance psychology and change management to higher-education improvement. A former professor of psychology and clinician, Dr. Powell brings his educational background and decades of experience to his passions for inclusion and opportunity in the lives of students.