It’s hard to focus when you’ve got a lot on your mind.

You sit down to be creative and all you can think about is that last argument you had with your spouse. Or that you must reschedule your dentist appointment. Or what you’re going to order for lunch. But there are ways around this—ways to clear your mind so you can concentrate on the project in front of you. After all, you don’t want to be known for handing in sub-par assignments. Here’s how to clear your mind so you can do your best work.

Sit and Think

Set aside a few minutes and just think. Clear off your desk so that only a notepad and pen sit in front of you. For the first minute or two, don’t write anything. Just take a deep breath and welcome any thought that comes into your head. If you want, carry on in this meditative state. Welcome a thought and then release it.

Make a List

Once you’ve meditated for a minute or two, start to write.

Go through your major categories of life and brainstorm your list of major thoughts for each one as though you’re pulling them out of your head to discard them. Later, that list could be your to-do-list.

First, your health and wellness needs—you’re dehydrated, your tooth is bothering you.

The next category is family and friends—your son’s birthday is coming up or you need to catch up with a friend.

Next, your personal belongings—you need to order a new suit or call a plumber about a leak.

Then tackle some thoughts about your work projects, your career goals, your finances, and any other major category in your life. As the thoughts leave your brain and land on your paper, you’re clearing your mind so you can focus.

Get Active

Go for a walk, or a run, or just do a few minutes of jumping jacks, squats, lunges, or push-ups. Your blood starts flowing, endorphins are released, your mood is boosted, and you forget about the stress. It’s the best way to activate your muscles and stimulate your brain.

Be Grateful

Take a few minutes to jot down the things you’re thankful for—good health, a great job, a warm house, or quality friends and family. By focusing on the positive, you automatically lower your stress and anxiety and allow yourself to focus on the tasks in front of you.

Do Something Mindless

Straighten up your desk, fold laundry, sweep the floor, or sit and play a game that doesn’t require much thought. These simple actions give you the chance to sort your thoughts—your hands are busy while your mind wanders. As soon as you’re finished your mindless tasks, go back to work. Sit down and see what comes out now that your other distracting thoughts have been released.

Looking to Accelerate Your Career Growth Once Your Mind is Clear?

Check out this earlier post on how to earn a promotion, garner a raise or set the stage for a career transition:

How to Blow Your Boss’s Mind (in the Best Way Possible!)

Then contact an Exact Staff Career Agent. With a nationwide presence, we can confidentially represent you to employers who need talented, career-minded professionals like you. If you’re ready for a new opportunity to build your skills and advance your career, apply with your local Exact Staff office today.