It’s always been a struggle to maintain a clutter free desk. Even in college I had a Peanuts’ sign that read “A messy desk is a sign of an uncluttered mind”. Not true. A recent study, however, found that a messy desk might, in fact, indicate creativity and innovative thinking. Albert Einstein is quoted as saying: “If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, of what, then, is an empty desk a sign?”[1]

Last week after a huge effort to clean my desk, I had a transformative experience. When I sat down in the morning, able to see the hardwood surface of the door that is my desk, my mind was almost pummeled with new ideas and clarity. Although a morning routine of yoga and meditation contributed to a sense of well being, the physical space created quiet and clarity in my mind and spirit. My productivity increased dramatically!

There’s a parallel between a clean desk and how we might conduct productive conversation. Like an unencumbered workspace, we need a process for clearing our minds! Let’s rid ourselves of the noise in our heads, the constant internal dialog. It’s difficult to have simultaneous interactions.

Whether tackling a difficult conversation or engaging in day-to-day dialog, we want to become aware of the emotions, thoughts, and judgments occupying our minds, acknowledge what’s there and then shift the focus. Besides, the same thoughts occupy the space in our heads over and over again.

To help all of our conversations this year, start becoming aware of your inner dialog. Especially if dealing with a challenging employee or friend, make sure that you’ve “cleared” yourself of residual clutter.

How? In the early morning hours, the shower, while walking the dog, during the commute, before looking at your emails, over coffee, ask yourself, “What are you present to”, or “What is in the way of you being here right now?”[2] Also, make a mental list of what you’re thankful for to shift awareness.

A clear mind assures productive and thoughtful conversations. Clean out your Thought Collective every day and especially ahead of any demanding meeting. And, you might re-organize your desk, too!

 

 

[1] “Is a Messy Desk a Sign of a Cluttered Mind?”; Huffington Post, Feb. 2016;   http://www.huffingtonpost.com/john-egan/is-your-messy-desk-a-sign-of-a-cluttered-mind_b_6600038.html

[2] pg 29, Sacred Commerce by Matthew and Terces Engelhart; North Atlantic Books, 2008.