We live in a world where we are lucky enough to have every piece of information imaginable at our fingertips. It’s pretty amazing. We can connect with one another, learn new things and order basically whatever we want at any time. This is both a blessing and a curse. Right now, my eyes hurt and my brain feels like it’s going to explode because, people, I’ve overindulged. I’m an addict who could read articles on HR, Leadership books, fiction, self-help. I could watch YouTube, Netflix and anything else imaginable for days on end. I think I’ve had enough. Too much content. I’m sure we’ve all been there at one point or another but how do we know when to call it quits and more importantly, how do we wipe the slate clean? I’m not talking a lobotomy here, but truly, how do we help ourselves when we’ve overloaded on content and stop the insanity? Check out some ideas below.

Va (or stay) cation

They are necessary. Don’t think you’re too busy to take one or that the world will crumble without you. You can’t afford not to take one and do so in the correct way. No email. No calls. No texting. Truly shut it all down and give yourself time to rest and relax. You’re no good to anyone when you’re overloaded.

Meditate/ Embrace Silence

Even the word meditate might be too much for you. I get it. But don’t think of it as some hour long sitting on a cushion Om-ing type session. It can be something as simple as sitting quietly and focusing on your breath for 2 minutes. Meditating isn’t easy and it takes practice but how many more studies do we need to see promoting it before we take heed?

Exercise

Move your body. There are so many options and ways to do this to satisfy every person. No excuses not to do it. It impacts everything. Health, sanity, performance. Participate in physical activity regularly and it doesn’t take long to see how much it impacts your world. (including your poor overloaded brain!)

Do What You Love

Does cuddling with your pooch help you forget all of your troubles in the world? Snuggle away! Is going to the beach your thing? Get there pronto. Maybe a walk in the park? Go for it. We’ve all got different methods of soothing ourselves and rebooting. Knowing what works for us doesn’t mean a thing if we don’t actually DO it.

At the end of the day, we want to have enough brain capacity left to interact meaningfully with our families and friends. All of the reading and watching in the world can’t replace human interaction. Remember, no one will want to spend time with you if you’re an overloaded zombie, so take time out to relax every once and a while.