Cut the Mental Chatter and Get Focused!
Yesterday I got to enjoy a rare afternoon at the pool hanging with some sweet friends while the kiddos swam. It was a blast to hang out my momma friends and chat about kids, school, and other “mom” stuff. And then it happened. The conversation took a downward turn.
One mom brought up how the pool is closing in 3 days. Then, the other mom mentioned how the days were already growing shorter. From there the conversation went to school routines and the dreaded “getting out in cold weather,” and just like that, summer had been sucked from my soul like my son’s Legos into the vacuum cleaner.
Sure, I knew fall was coming. Eventually. I just hadn’t really let it enter my thinking yet.
I mean we’ve technically got a full MONTH of summer, people! Technically.
But we all know that while summer may not “technically” end until the calendar turns to September 22, it’s un-officially over when school starts back up. Heck, even if you don’t have kiddos in school, you can still sense a shift in the atmosphere, right?
In some ways, it’s a welcome change. I’m usually ready for some nice, crisp Autumn weather by the tenth day of triple digit August heat. And while hanging out pool-side has its merits, I’m all about getting into a routine and getting stuff done.
You know what I think it is? It’s the holidays. Don’t get me wrong, I love Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years- but there’s a whole ton of stress that goes along with the fun and good times, at least for us mommas. Phew! Slow down, deep breath. I’m NOT going to let the holiday rush take me out this year! I refuse to surrender my peace.
Guess which one I am?
You with me? So how about this: Since we’ve been on the subject of rest and relaxation for a few weeks now, let’s talk about a few ways to cut the mental chatter and keep our peace, no matter what’s going on around us. Sound good? And if we start practicing now, we’ll be pros at this come November 25th so that not even the pushiest, grabbiest Black Friday Shopper can bring us down! (Personally, I’ll be doing my shopping online anyways, but hey, we all need more peace in our lives, right?)
3 Ways to Cut the Mental Chatter and Get Focused
Nix the distraction of social media
Social media can be SO obnoxious! Is anybody with me on this? Yet, it’s so addictive. Sure, you know it’s wasting your time, but you just. can’t. stop. Try these tips to keep social media from taking over your life:
- Turn off notifications. This one has helped me out a ton! I no longer have Facebook notifications turned on my phone or iPad. No more checking my phone every time I hear a little ding, like one of Pavlov’s dogs salivating at the sound of a dinner bell. If the people closest to me really need to get a hold of me, they know where to find me. Everything else is just noise.
- Set a timer. Ok, I admit this one is a little tough, but if you’re really trying to break a serious social media addiction, then this may be your solution. Set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes once a day and allow yourself that time to binge on social media to your heart’s content. When the timer dings- you’re done! Shut it down and walk away.
Set Your Intentions for the Day During Your Morning Routine
Probably no surprise here, but I gotta say that starting my day off right is my number 1 secret to keeping my wits about me. Taking the time to decided what you want to focus on before you start your day is a huge strategy for keeping your mind focused and free of clutter.
Take some time before you start your day to write down your top 3 priorities for the day. Of course there is all the little stuff that gets done like make breakfast for the kids, throw in some laundry and what not. But I ask myself what are the top 3 things I want to do today to move myself forward in my life and my biz. For me right now, those three things are- Write everyday, work on my homework for my business coaching program and read something that will help me grow spiritually. If I get those three things done, I’m golden.
Give Time to God
Speaking of growing spiritually, this is my go to strategy for cutting the mental chatter and keeping my focus. God ‘s plan for your life doesn’t involve running from one distraction to the next. Instead, you were meant to live focused, relaxed and at peace. Just take a look at what Paul had to say about the subject:
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. ” -Philippians 4:6
There’s just something about getting yourself grounded in the Word of God before you start your day, that’s like turning on a switch in your spirit. By the way the word meditate doesn’t mean to quickly skim a passage and go on your merry way. The original definition has the meaning of thinking about, speaking, muttering and rolling the words over in your mind. This is an active process where you allow the Holy Spirit to speak to your heart through the Word of God. This process will leave your soul refreshed and ready for any challenge that comes your way.
That’s it, my friend! Simple steps to cut the mental chatter, live relaxed and stay focused. Go in peace!
