Resetting my Brain (virtual degauss button)

[ArcCaster]

Sometimes, my attention remains fixed on a completed action item (perhaps because it is particularly pleasing, or perhaps because I am thinking about how I can do it better next time). Theoretically, it would be great to just fly down a list of next actions, completely focusing on each in turn. In practice, my focus becomes diffused as the day goes on.

Any thoughts on doing a brain reset? (I would like the equivalent of the oldtime computer monitor 'degauss button', which would discharge all electromagnetic buildup in a wonderful sparkling flash, leaving me with a static-free calm clear 'screen like water' )

 

[kewms]

If an action is still holding your attention, maybe it isn't really done? That is, maybe your brain is still holding some sort of open loop related to it. That loop could be, as in your examples, wanting to appreciate your success or plan for the future, or it could be that the action has consequences that you need to think through.

Whatever it is, it might be worth taking a few minutes to jot down whatever's on your mind relative to the item. Throw it in your inbox and process it as normal.

It's also quite normal to just get tired as the day goes on. Make sure you take breaks, especially between bouts of demanding mental work. More exercise and more sleep also help improve energy levels for lots of people.

Katherine

 

[dschaffner]

Any thoughts on doing a brain reset? (I would like the equivalent of the oldtime computer monitor 'degauss button', which would discharge all electromagnetic buildup in a wonderful sparkling flash, leaving me with a static-free calm clear 'screen like water' )

Sometimes just changing locations does the trick. I like to walk to a local coffee shop. The walk gets my blood pumping, and the change of scenery help make a clean break allowing a change of focus.

 

[Rolf F. Katzenberger]

Turn it into something special and ordinary, at the same time

Put your achievements on the wall, like they do it here: http://www.behance.com/Featured/Articles/Tip-Surround-Yourself-With-Progress/5580.

You'll be proud of what you achieved and at the same time reminded that you can do it over and over again. Thus, the completed actions become special and ordinary, at the same time.

Rolf

 

[Brent]

That. Is. Awesome.

 

[webhak]

My mental Etch-A-Sketch technique is exercise. Even if you only have time for a two-minute walk around the cubicle farm.

Another is to hit the bathroom stall and just sit on the toilet and work on some breathing techniques (pranayama). As goofy as it sounds, turning my focus inward does wonders on clearing out the external influences...work, family, friends, etc.

After all, you have to live with yourself every day. Very few spend any time learning how to improve themselves internally. If you think about it, most of the self-help things we do (GTD for example) are designed to help us deal with external issues.

hak

 

[hth]

Sometimes, my attention remains fixed on a completed action item (perhaps because it is particularly pleasing, or perhaps because I am thinking about how I can do it better next time). Theoretically, it would be great to just fly down a list of next actions, completely focusing on each in turn. In practice, my focus becomes diffused as the day goes on.

To solve both possible reasons for the action not to leave your head:
- Write the item into a success journal.
- Write the notable facts to a lesson learned note and drop it into your inbox.
I assume afterwards it would be easier to clear your brain.

Yours
Alexander

 

[sjdavis113]

Lesson Learned

I love the "lesson(s) learned" note idea! Think I'll add a new note file for just that topic.

Stacey