CLARITY

BY ERIKA GILEO, COO

Is it just me or does it seem that people are struggling more than is typical these days? I don’t know if this is the carry over from the pandemic because of the uncertainty it stirred up, the current economic conditions, the current disruptions in our industry or whether it is just my perception. I do know that it’s more important than ever before that we focus on the positive and on those areas that will propel us forward in our personal and business growth.

My one word this year is CLARITY. I will intentionally cut through the fog that seems to be everywhere these days and ensure that I have a clear picture of where I’m going. This is easier said than done, of course. There are so many distractions muddying the waters. Mental clarity is a vital element of productivity and fulfillment both in and outside the office. We need a clear mind to problem-solve and stay on top of whatever challenges are thrown our way. Being prepared mentally allows you to make better decisions and be more productive. It helps you handle stress and allows you to both enjoy life and everything that’s important in your life. I definitely don’t have everything figured out; I chose this word because I need help in this area, but here are some ways that I achieve clarity:

ORGANIZATION:If my home or work environment is cluttered and disorganized, this definitely has an effect on my productivity.

PLANNING:Create clearly defined goals for work and life and write them down. Be passionate about what you want to accomplish. Look at your goals from a ten-thousand-foot perspective and envision yourself living the life you desire. Affirm your plan in writing every day to keep on track.

FOCUS:This is definitely a tough one for me. There are so many things in life that require our immediate attention and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. I used to pride myself on being an amazing multi-tasker, but I’m really most effective when I put my mind to one task at a time.

Mental clarity is a vital element of productivity and fulfillment both in and outside the office. We need a clear mind to problem-solve and stay on top of whatever challenges are thrown our way.

NO DISTRACTIONS:This is also not easy to accomplish these days when we have notifications popping up at us from texts, Messenger, social media, Teams, our calendar and the various humans with whom we work and live. Turn off as many notifications as possible. Eliminate things that don’t matter to your life plan.

CHOOSE YOUR FUEL:The healthier you eat, the better your brain will perform. Mental clarity is critical. Start slowly and incorporate healthy foods into your diet.

SLEEP:The quality of your sleep is directly proportionate to your mental performance. I know; sometimes easier said than done.

CALM YOUR MIND:Make time every day to be quiet. This can include meditation, but if that word is daunting to you, just take a few minutes each day to sit quietly and focus on your breathing. Many people have a morning routine that works for them. Hal Elrod’s Miracle Morning is one excellent routine that helps millions of people to start their day off in control. Check out EXIT’s Miracle Morning Facebook Group to learn more about this effective process.

BE ACTIVE:Staying physically active, even just walking daily, is an important way in which to achieve mental clarity.

CONNECT:Many healthcare providers reported an increase in mental health symptoms that were thought to have been attributed to the isolation related to the pandemic. Despite the rise of AI and technology, human beings need to relate to other human beings. Everyone is dealing with something and sometimes the smallest interaction can mean the greatest difference to someone.

Simplicity is often the best way to remove the fog and see clearly. Life is already too complicated. I hope this helps you reach for the very best on your path.