10 Ways To Deal With a Mental Block

If you find yourself facing a mental block at work, at home or whilst working on a project with friends, there are many ways to improve your focus and output. We've focussed on 10 ways to help you almost instantly so grab yourself a few minutes and let's go through them.

1. Break down the project

One of the best ways to get over a mental block at work is to break down your projects into smaller tasks and activities. If you’re overwhelmed by the project’s size or how much you have left to do, ease into making progress by tackling the smallest possible tasks first. you can use a simple list, table or Gantt chart.

2. Declutter your workspace

If your work environment is cluttered, your mind may be cluttered as well. The cleanliness of your workspace can affect your thinking and performance at work. An organised desk helps you find and reach your tools without interrupting your flow.

3. Take a break

If you’ve tried unsuccessfully to work through a mental block, the next best thing you can do is take a break. Try some unrelated activities like solving a crossword, washing dishes, or talking to a friend. Breaks help to reset your mind and connect the dots. You could even take a nap to allow your subconscious to work through the mental block.

4. Get an outside perspective

Most times, mental blocks are caused by getting stuck in your thinking about an issue or project. Exposing yourself to new ideas gives you different perspectives and solutions for your work. Try reading articles, talking to others, and doing some research online.

5. Control your inner chatter (your story)

If you pay attention to your inner monologue, you'll notice the thought patterns that block your progress – fear, perfectionism, impostor syndrome, or even a combination of several emotions. When you know what these thought patterns are, you can tackle them. Exercising, meditating, and journaling are great ways to become more mindful and control your inner chatter.

6. Improve your skills

Feeling inadequate is one of the main reasons why people experience mental blocks. If you feel unprepared for a project, you should take time to research, learn, and practice. Over time, you’ll get comfortable enough to overcome mental blocks and perform better at work.

7. Reduce stress

A daily schedule can help you reduce stress. Knowing what you have to do, reduces the need for decision-making. In turn, this eases mental fatigue and improves your efficiency. Keeping your work and workspace organised also helps to reduce stress and workplace anxiety.

8. Compartmentalise your work

Compartmentalising your work and setting early deadlines for critical tasks alleviates the mental blocks that can come from feeling overwhelmed with too much to do.

9. Use your fear positively

If you believe you will fail before even starting a project, you may self-sabotage or perform poorly, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy. Utilise your fear by preparing for adverse project outcomes, as well as positive ones. When you’re aware of all that can go wrong, you’re better equipped to deal with it, especially in the project planning stage.

10. Rest

Resting is one of the best ways to maintain mental health and overcome blocks. Getting a regular 7-9 hours of sleep every night keeps your mind sharp and ready. If you push yourself relentlessly, your exhausted brain will throw up mental blocks.

All of these can be powerful ways to increase your ability to overcome a mental block. Starting the day the right way is often the key so if you haven't read our '3 Morning Habits' that will set you up for success, click here.