Is your brain like a birdie flitting around a cloud?
Some days are lost causes. You feel scattered, your thoughts are all over creation, you’re not getting anything done, and you’re unsettled. That could be because a weather front is coming through. Your significant other told you a big whopper. Your dog threw up on the rug. And your loss of focus makes you feel guilty for not getting things done. And you’re not happy.
Then it stands to reason that if you regain your focus, you’ll be happier.
So, how exactly can you get focused and get happier?
Lists!
I’m a big fan of lists. I have multiple lists in my Google Keep. (If you use Google Calendar, Google Keep works with it seamlessly, as you would expect. You’ll see a portion of my calendar here, with Notes. And, yes, I have the Chicago Cubs games on my calendar so I can listen to games when I can.) Lists for every aspect of my life. Of course, some aspects overlap, so as long as you check all your lists when you have time to actually do something, you won’t miss anything.
If you prefer actual written lists – even better. You can carry it with you and not worry about battery life. As long as you have a scrap of paper and a pen (or pencil), you’re good to go.
Now, list all the things running around in your mind. For this exercise, just the big ones. We’ll do a deep dive into all the things flitting around bugging your brain at another time.
Tackle the big ones
Take a look at them. What’s most important? Do that. Then move onto the next. For however long you want to devote to this exercise.
Feel a sense of accomplishment?
Now, go sweat
And go exercise. Studies have shown that exercise improves clarity and focus. I’ve written about this before. Plus, when you’re done, you’ll have an incredible sense of satisfaction, having burned all those calories.
Or meditate. Or practice another mindfulness technique, like deep breathing.
You should be much more focused now. More able to face life. And that should definitely make you happier.