In attempting to embrace and channel my word of the year, namely focus, my need to declutter a few things has become apparent.
A decluttered environment leads to a decluttered brain.
A decluttered environment leads to a decluttered brain. ~Jennifer Grashel #focus Share on X
The struggle is real. We’re not talking a Hoarders level of clutter or anywhere close. I’ve long recognized my need to be surrounded by order and beauty.
Side note. An episode of Hoarders was filmed recently in my friends’ neighborhood. I haven’t heard yet when it airs or whether we’re having a watch party. (What do you serve at such a party? Pigs in a blanket, probably?) Stay tuned.
So a little decluttering here, a little decluttering there it is.
Some attention to healthy eating and exercise it is, too. My daily stoutness exercises are conducive to a decluttered brain. I did a lot of squats in January. 3,324 of the varying varieties if my math is correct. It’s not that I love squats that much. It’s that I like the results – feeling stronger, feeling better about my appearance, and feeling like my clothes fit.
Squats are the number one exercise you should be doing in order to stay out of the nursing home. Why? Well, if you’re not strong enough to get back up from a seated position, say from actually going number one (depending on your gender) and/or two … you’re gonna need some help. Probably more help than you have at home. I’ve heard the Notorious RBG does squats.
Being cognizant of when it’s time to ignore social media is helpful in decluttering the brain as well. Good grief, so many of you out there are experts on all matters legal, political, and theological. And I’m not so sure you’re loving God and loving people when you “call out” individuals and groups. I’m speaking to both sides of the aisle. Am I an idiot? A hater? Yes, according to some your rhetoric, which you would likely never say to my face.
“Oh, but I didn’t mean you.”
Yeah you did, with what you just said. You generalized about a group with which I identify. But I will, of course, defend to the death your right to say and post what you want.
Anyone else miss the good ol’ days before the rise of outrage culture? When we could have a healthy debate and practice grace with each other?
But enough about that.
As a creative and in my pursuit of order and beauty I’ve been spending a little time with the sketch pad. More to come on that next week, perhaps with the opportunity for you to participate in the creativity.
All in the name of focusing.
And inspiring ourselves and each other.
And decluttering.