Get Started on Your Emotional Spring Cleaning

• Helene Lerner


• 9 Jul 2015

If we’re not careful, our minds can easily take on the same clutter and chaos as our closets. Take time to sort out the loose ends in your life and decide what’s worth keeping and what you’ll box up and put out on the curb.

These tips will help you start your emotional spring cleaning.

Sort out your baggage
What’s eating you? It’s time to figure out what’s keeping you stuck and let go of it. Are you still hung up on your ex or angry at being passed over for a promotion at work? Holding onto resentment only blocks you from future opportunities.

Clear out the cobwebs 
Negative mind-chatter creates scenarios that are unreal and keep us up at night. You may be telling yourself that you aren’t good enough, comparing yourself to other people and not measuring up. Become aware when you do this and reach out to friends who can give you a reality check.

Air out negativity
Are there people in your life whose pessimism has wormed its way into your thoughts? They complain and complain, and if you keep them close, your peace of mind is affected. Now is the time to cut them loose.

Make an action plan
Your spring cleaning is underway, it’s time to consider what would make you feel more fulfilled. Reflect on what you want to bring into your life, for example, a promotion at work, or spending more time with friends and loved ones. Then consider what steps you will take to reach your goal.

Lists, lists, lists
Changing old habits is difficult and takes commitment. For some people, lists are a great way to stay on top of things—but for others, a big list of to-dos can be overwhelming. How can you make a list that works for you? Try Bullet Journaling. It offers a great way to keep track of your long and short term goals. Be sure to check off items when you accomplish them—that will give you a sense of completion.