As a fitness or wellbeing business owner, you wear many hats. You’re not just a coach or practitioner; you’re also a marketer, an accountant, a strategist, and often a sounding board for your clients. It’s a lot to juggle, and when things don’t go to plan, the mental clutter can become overwhelming.
This is where the power of getting things out of your head comes into play. Whether it’s journaling, brain-dumping, or talking to your phone, externalising your thoughts is a catalyst for clarity and focus. Here’s why:
1. Mental clarity and reduced stress:
When things don’t go to plan, your mind can become a whirlwind of thoughts: “What went wrong?” “How can I fix this?” “What will people think?” By putting these thoughts on paper or into a digital format, you create space between you and your thoughts – you gain a different perspective. This act of externalising helps reduce stress as often things are not as bad as they seem once removed from your mind. It also allows you to approach challenges from a different perspective.
2. Identifying patterns and solutions:
Writing things down helps you spot patterns you might miss when thoughts are swirling around in your head. For example, you might notice that certain issues arise repeatedly because of a specific process or lack of preparation. Once you see the pattern, you can address it more effectively.
3. Turning overwhelm into action:
When you’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to feel paralysed. The lack of control and certainty can gain momentum and size when you just keep it in your mind. A brain dump can help you transform chaos into a manageable list of tasks. Break each problem into smaller, actionable steps. Instead of “Fix the website issue,” you might write, “Contact the web developer,” or “Test the booking system.” This makes the situation feel less daunting.
4. Emotional processing:
Sometimes, when things go awry, it’s not just about the logistics but also the emotions involved. Writing down your frustrations, fears, or disappointments can be cathartic. It’s a safe space to process emotions without judgment.
Practical Tips for Getting Things Out of Your Head:
- Journaling: Set aside 10 minutes each day to write freely about what’s on your mind. Don’t censor yourself; this is for your eyes only.
- To-Do Lists: Use a planner or app to list your tasks. Prioritise them by urgency and importance.
- Voice Notes: If writing isn’t your thing, record your thoughts as voice memos.
By regularly getting things out of your head, you’ll create mental space to focus on what truly matters in your business and personal life. When things don’t go to plan, this habit can be the anchor that keeps you grounded. The more you do it, the more natural it becomes and eventually it will simply be part of your normal routine. Give it a go and let me know how you get on.
Until next time,
Best wishes
Philippa x