Sometimes we become overwhelmed with everything swimming around in our brains. We might be anxious worries, or so full of ideas we can’t focus. It’s frustrating and can lead to even more stress. But luckily, there is something you can do to ease your restless mind. By using a method called a brain dump.
What is a brain dump?
A brain dump is capturing all those scattered thoughts, and getting them out of your head and on paper. So you can work through all of your thoughts one by one. It’s similar to how one might declutter and organize a filing cabinet. You’re simply taking all the mess out of your mind and sorting through it until you feel the pressure inside of you lessen.
Benefits of Brain Dumps
Brain dumps are an effective method in preventing that overwhelming sensation that leads to burn out. Through brain dumps, you’re able to process scattered thoughts. Something your brain is unable to do. Putting your thoughts on paper gives you the mental clarity necessary for analyzing what’s on your mind. So you can look at your thoughts strategically and create a sense of order. Instead of chasing after half-formed ideas.
How to do a Brain Dump
The great thing about brain dumps is they’re simple. So even if you have a busy schedule it’s something you can squeeze in during your lunch break or incorporate into your evening routine. Brain dumps look different for everyone, so here are the basic steps of doing a brain dump.
Figure out your Triggers
We all tend to let things build up. And once we’ve done that, we can’t help but feel overwhelmed. And that’s when doing a brain dump should take priority. Figure out your triggers, and write them down. Knowing when you feel overwhelmed can help you offset some stress. For example, if one of your triggers is travel, then you may want to do a brain dump before your trip to reduce your stress level.
Write Down
Grab a pen and paper and write down everything that’s been cluttering your mind. Don’t worry about being organized. Once you’ve gotten everything out of your head, take a break and something else to get your mind off it.
Review it
Next, take a look at what you wrote, and sort through things and identify what is stressing you out. Then make a plan to tackle those issues.
Take action if needed
After that, the next step is taking action. Some issues will call for to implement a plan and take steps towards tackling an issue. Others you won’t have to do anything at all. Some of the things that are bothering you, you simply need to acknowledge. A brain dump is a way of caring for your mental health by releasing some of the stress and pressures we hold on to. It allows you to clear your mind and distress so you can relax.
The next time you start feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts. Pull out your favorite notebook and pen and settle in for a brain dump. It doesn’t take long but is an effective way to tackle overwhelming thoughts so you can relax your mind. So try to make it a regular habit, to clear your mind of pesky negative thoughts, and make room for new ideas to take root.
Ready to declutter your mind?
Grab your free printable brain dump worksheet here.
PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL FREE PRINTABLES ON MY SITE ARE FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY, AND MAY NOT BE SOLD. FEEL FREE TO SHARE THIS FREEBIE, BUT PLEASE CREDIT ME AND LINK BACK TO THIS PAGE WHEN PLACING MY IMAGES ON YOUR BLOG OR SOCIAL MEDIA. PLEASE DO NOT LINK DIRECTLY TO THE DOWNLOADABLE PDF FILE; INSTEAD LINK BACK TO THE URL OF THIS PAGE. THANKS!
Related post: How to Overcome Mental Blocks
Pin me!
i love doing brain dumps… they rlly help me see the point of all my thoughts. Thanks for sharing <3
Me too, It’s become a weekly habit for me. You’re welcome and thanks for stopping by.
I’ve never done brain dumps before, but I’d like to give them a try.
It’s a great tool for combating stress. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.