When you first try to write down what you are thinking, you might not know where to start, which is extremely frustrating

The easiest answer is to start with whatever is the most top of mind. However, I recommend checking out this list when you first start to brain dump. If you do the onboarding process of the Barbell System, this exercise is a part of the step-by-step guide.

This exercise called Mindsweep (from the Getting Things Done methodology) is a powerful way to remind yourself of everything you would/could/should/must/have to do.

Have your task manager and note-taking app at hand when you read the following list. If you think, “Oh, that reminds me of X,” write down X as a separate task on the Options list. If you come up with ideas and other spontaneous journaling during this exercise, write them down on your note-taking app.

Full incomplete trigger list: https://gettingthingsdone.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/Mind_Sweep_Trigger_List.pdf 

Original article: https://thetotalliving.com/2022/03/this-checklist-will-help-you-break-free-from-your-thoughts-barbell-8/

My name is Oscar Lagrosen and am the founder of The Total Living. I publish a new podcast episode every single day about effortless productivity for highly ambitious people. Tips, frameworks, and big ideas to craft your ideal life, both right now and in the future.