Have you ever worried about things so much that thinking through them becomes tough? Have so many options that you keep going in circles? In times of most need, thinking stops being clear. Here’s the way to get clarity in thoughts:

1. Write in points. No stories, just points.
Writing in points forces the mind to break things down into smaller logical units. Dealing with smaller logical units make things simple to understand. Points avoid going in circles, it avoids repetitions. Moreover, sometimes in extreme emotional state we tend to magnify things; be it positively or negatively. Writing points down helps to put them in the right perspective.

2. Create a table to compare details of all options.
Whenever you have to choose between varied alternatives and are having difficulty, try this. Having all the pros and cons of the options on one page definately helps the mind to process faster. Moreover, it ensures that you are not leaving any detail out. You can then simply start the process of eliminating weakest obvious option and be sure about your decision since the reasons are available on the page itself.

3. Draw a diagram to chart out your flows.
Ever had so many scenarios to think of that you lose track of them and get confused? Chart out all your if-else logic on a piece of paper / writing board. Having all your flows available at a glance helps in increasing focus and being able to simultaeneously work on all of them. Visuals also make it easy to explain the thought process to someone else.

4. Focus on one thing at a time.
Agreed it’s easy to multitask. But slow down. Do one thing at a time. Take one idea at a time. Put all your focus and energy on it. And then when you are sure you are done, move to the next. Sometimes, it’s really as simple as that.

5. Bounce your ideas / thoughts at someone.
Having someone to talk to and dumping all thoughts on is great. It clears your mind. In order to explain a complex thought to someone, you have to simplify things for them. This itself, creates clarity for you. As an added bonus, if the person is good, you might also get valuable inputs.

6. Are you really confused?
Sometimes, it’s you who’s confusing yourself to avoid making decisions. Reasons could vary – you don’t want to take responsibility, you don’t believe you can make the right decision etc. Stop doing so.

This article featured in following carnivals:
Personal Hack
Carnival of Self Mastery