Cleaning Up Your Mental Mess: 5 Simple, Scientifically Proven Steps to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Toxic Thinking

by Caroline Leaf

When feeling stuck, try the following brain-building boosters: Question how high your bar for originality is. Keep in mind there is nothing new, just new ways of saying things. As you read and learn more, you’ll realize there are common messages throughout; people just say them in different and unique ways. Have an experimental mindset, which means to explore, test, analyze results, pivot if it doesn’t work, and repeat. Be an infinite learner always. Read fiction and nonfiction (fiction is especially great for boosting creativity and problem-solving abilities), listen to podcasts, engage in tough conversations, travel. Be open to any and all opportunities. Be open to the yes. If something sounds remotely interesting, pursue it. Don’t fall into the trap of having to be great at something to try it. Embrace the opportunity to learn. Remember: every great athlete was not great in the beginning and had to learn. Be prepared to have those difficult conversations—you can learn so much from these. Get comfortable agreeing to disagree.