8 Strategies for Closing the Excess Mental Tabs

Do you have too many tabs open in your brain? I know many times I do, so let’s talk about it. In our fast-paced world, our lives are often cluttered with countless open tabs not just in our brains, but also on our phones and computers, too. This overabundance of information and seemingly urgent tasks can lead to feelings of overwhelm and hinder our productivity. Closing excess tabs, both literally and figuratively, can significantly improve our focus and bring a sense of peace. Today, I’m sharing 8 ways I declutter my digital space and free my mind for increased productivity and to lessen anxiety.

Write a Realistic To-Do List

Start by creating a to-do list to capture all your tasks, deadlines, and priorities. Putting your thoughts on paper helps declutter your mind, enabling you to focus on what really needs to be done. Prioritize your tasks and set realistic deadlines, ensuring that your list is manageable and achievable. As you complete each task, cross it off the list to experience a sense of accomplishment and motivation.

Create a Parking Lot

Do random thoughts and ideas pop into your mind while you’re working on a specific task? This happens to me all the time. Instead of getting sidetracked, I create a parking lot list where I jot down these thoughts for later. This way, you won't lose those valuable ideas, and you can return to them when the time is right, allowing you to stay focused on your current work.

Put Events and Meetings on the Calendar

To keep track of important events and meetings, schedule them on your digital calendar. Sync your calendar across devices to stay informed and avoid double-booking. This practice ensures that your schedule is organized, and you won't have to keep tabs open to remember upcoming appointments.

Delegate Tasks

Learn to delegate tasks when possible. You don’t have to do it all! Sharing responsibilities not only lightens your load but also empowers others. This applies at home with raising children and household responsibilities, and at work, too. Stop telling yourself that no one will do ‘it’ as good as you. Maybe they won’t, but done is better than perfect. Limit the tabs and tasks by getting help.

Physically Close Tabs on Devices

When you finish working on a specific task or browsing session, make it a habit to close unnecessary tabs on your phone and computer. This not only declutters your digital space but also prevents distractions when you return to your devices later. Prioritize the tabs you genuinely need, and close the rest to maintain a clean and organized digital workspace.

Take Regular Breaks

Allow yourself short breaks throughout the day to recharge. Step away from your screens, go for a walk, or stretch. Taking breaks helps prevent burnout, improves focus, and enhances overall well-being, enabling you to return to tasks with a fresh perspective.

Brain Dump at the End of the Day

At the end of each day, take a few minutes to perform a brain dump. Write down any lingering thoughts, worries, or ideas onto paper. This practice clears your mind, helping you relax and ensuring that you won't dwell on these thoughts overnight.

do a Digital Detox

Consider periodic digital detoxes to cleanse your mind from the constant flood of information. Spend time engaged in activities that don't involve screens, such as reading a book, meditating, or listening to music. Disconnecting from technology helps you reset, recharge, and return to your digital space with increased clarity. I do this a lot when I’m on vacation and other times just because.

These practices will help declutter your digital world and free your mind for increased creativity, efficiency, and peace. What others would you add to the list? Share in the comments.

Have a glowing day!