Have you ever experienced what felt like a mental fog? You really need to focus, but you just can’t? There is so much background noise and clutter in your brain, clarity feels impossible. We tend to notice this when we have an important decision to make, or we have a deadline looming.
How RAM Impacts Mental Clarity and Focus
RAM, or random access memory, is the storage available on a computer. Like a computer, our brain has memory that we use for thinking, problem solving, bodily functions, data analysis, processing of subconscious thoughts and so much more.
Our brain processes millions of bits of information per second, some of it known to us and much of it we aren’t consciously aware is happening.
As our RAM fills up, we lose mental clarity and focus. This is when we experience the mental fog which often is followed by frustration and worry. The more memory we have available, the better we are able to focus. The good news is there are steps we can take to declutter and improve our mental clarity and focus, even if we only have a few minutes.
1. Brain Dumping
To restore mental clarity and focus, do a brain dump. It’s exactly what it sounds like. Here’s how it works:
Grab a pen and paper, or your favorite electronic device. Begin by closing your eyes and taking a deep breath, fully exhale. Spend 5-10 minutes writing whatever comes to your mind. If the thought is, “I don’t have time to do this silly exercise,” write it down. Whatever your thoughts, write them down.
Writing gets the clutter and noise out of your brain freeing more RAM so you can focus on the task at hand.
While it’s not necessary to keep this dump, I recommend holding on to it. After you do this a few times, you will become aware of thoughts that are constantly with you. Awareness is the first step toward creating positive change.
2. Meditation
From social media to television to day-to-day living, there are lots of stressors in our lives. Meditation is an effective way to clear clutter and restore mental clarity.
Just a few minutes of meditation can clear a busy mind and get you back on track.
3. Sleep
We know that sleep restores the body and clears clutter from the brain. It is recommended that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to restore mental clarity and focus. To find out how much sleep you need, get up every day at the same time and go to bed when you are tired. You will know how many hours you need when you wake refreshed and ready to take on the day.
4. Fuel Your Brain
What we eat and drink plays a big role in our mental clarity and we need to be eating real food. Stay hydrated throughout the day and avoid packaged, processed food.
5. Take Breaks
Studies show your body and brain work best when breaks are taken every two hours. Whether it’s a quick meditation, a walk around the building or a healthy snack, breaks will increase your focus and clarity to get you through the day.
If you’re not feeling as focused as you’d like, let’s talk! Contact me so we can discuss how I can help you get back on track.
Awesome info and perfect timing – thank you!
It’s my pleasure Robin. Glad it was helpful.