Once

Most of us have a million things running through our minds at any given time. It’s certainly the case with me, though it has improved somewhat with age. Or maybe that’s just my brain slowing down—which isn’t necessarily wonderful in other regards.

Whatever happens in our heads usually shows up in our actions: piles of clothes on the floor, dozens of open browser tabs, unfinished tasks, and open loops wherever you look.

It’s like your brain is sticky, and thoughts, worries, and tasks get stuck to it. The result is feeling frazzled, anxious, and—yes—dirty socks on the floor.

Short of being some zen monk, this is all pretty normal. It’s part of being human.

I suffer from it. You suffer from it. We all do.

The best strategy I’ve found is to focus laser-like on completing every task, idea, or dirty sock just once.

• If I see a sock on the floor, I pick it up and bring it to the laundry basket. Once.
• If I have an idea I want to act on, I put it in my idea inbox. Once.
• If I need to feed the dog, I do it—and I also fill her water bowl, put the scooper back, and close the closet door—one trip.
• If I need to email a co-worker, I write it and send it.

I follow my own advice on this much less than I should.

But, the whole idea is simple: whenever an open task or thought crosses your path, address it once and then move on. It clears the residue sticking to your brain and makes space for what’s next.

Complete the task. Clear the space.

Once.