Ever had a garage sale? Personally, I have a love hate relationship with garage sales. The main reason is all of the work that has to be put in before the big day. To have a successful sale you have to go through every item, clean it, place it where it can be seen and price it. It’s like opening up a store for 1-2 days. I know that garage sales are a fantastic way of recycling all types of items, and help a lot of people out, which I really like. But for a recovering procrastinator, it is torture!

Just like going through all of our “stuff”, we all have thoughts that we keep, just like storing things in the basement, attic, garage – even your inbox (which I am guilty of). Some are valuable and others are just in the way. These thoughts also need to be either put to use or “recycled”. When thoughts seem to be bouncing around inside your head, sometimes in a never ending collage of meaningless chatter, and begin to clog the flow of the creative process, this is your sign that it’s time to have a “mental garage sale” or send to a “donation station”. Begin clearing the clutter to stay on track – personally, professionally, and spiritually. Find that place that inspires you – the beach, a park, your back yard…wherever you can go to just let your thoughts slow down and for relaxation to set in. I know. It’s hard to allow yourself to relax, especially when you’re trying to work to make ends meet, keep the household running smoothly, teach the kids right from wrong, all of those items that form a group of immediate necessities that require so much of your time that nothing seems to be left for you.

I know that I am a better wife, mom, friend, and colleague when I’m clear and focused on my vision. This only happens when I have some alone time and clear my mind of clutter. Whatever helps you take a clarifying breath and puts you back on your path is not a waste of time. It makes your time with others so much more meaningful when you are enjoying it. You have to release the old to receive the new, in all areas of your life. Just remember: “The receiving slows until the clutter goes!” –Rachel Ringler