You know how when you are in the beginning or middle of something, and you get this idea or thought or thing that you don’t want to lose? And you know how it can distract you completely from what you’re doing? Because you are sure you are going to forget it if you don’t either deal with it or get it on the right list – right now? And how that can completely derail you? It’s a stall tactic from your brain. I have to admit that it’s a pretty good tactic, too, because those ideas, insights and observations are often f*ing brilliant and I really don’t want to lose them.

Well, I have this construct I use for capturing the thought and then giving my brain permission to let it go and get back to focusing on what I want to focus on.

I call it a basket. It’s topical. I suppose it could be tropical, too, which is my brain distracting me from finishing this blog. Anyway, I create a basket with a topic. Like an idea basket. Or a book basket. Or a project basket. Or a lessons learned basket. It’s usually some kind of looming project Then, when I get these brilliant but distracting ideas, I write them down on a post-it or a slip of paper, put them in the basket and put it away. Sometimes I use little boxes that have lids.  Sometimes I slip in a photo or an article.  It’s kinda like a pinterest board, except that I won’t be distracted by cool mermaid tattoos that lead to crochet projects and closet makeover ideas and…

The whole point is that by creating a container, I can put the idea away in a safe place. My brain can trust that it won’t get lost. I can get back to what I want to be doing.

I use this concept with my coaching clients a lot. It’s amazing how easy it is for us to spin out on something that we just don’t even need to think about now. It’s also amazing how much better our brain feels when we know the idea won’t get lost.

When I’m ready to tackle the topic of the basket, I’ll go back in and see what’s in there.  I discovered a wonderful unintended consequence, a bonus. Once I’ve put something in the container, I feel like I’ve made a start. When I have a few things in there, I feel like I’ve got a bit of a foundation. So when it’s time to tackle the topic, I never feel like I’m starting from scratch. My brain thinks that I have a good head start already, and that this is going to be easier!

It’s very simple. But simple is just lovely.

And remember that in all things – progress, not perfection!

Love and light,

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Schedule a free mini session with me (here) and I can help you find a bite of peace, or see if the Tapas for Your Soul Weight Loss program is for you.

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Is there a topic you’d like me to address in a blog? Let me know and I’ll give it a go!