Brain fog happens to all of us. We read a passage in Scripture, get to the end, and realize we scanned the words without comprehending them. Or, we stare at our desks with 19 projects staring back at us and don’t have a clue where to begin. Or, we load up our days with back-to-back meetings and conversations and it becomes one big blur in our minds. Whatever the scenario, there’s a remedy – a way to slow down, to breathe, to connect.
I had a case of literal brain fog the other night driving home from work. I take a scenic, country route instead of highways, and I’ve driven it for decades. On this particular night, the fog was like London’s. I was only five minutes from work and already deep in thought – reliving an intense meeting. I pulled up to a stop sign, looked around, and couldn’t tell where I was. For a few unnerving seconds, I scoured the area searching for familiar landmarks. There were none – just this ghostly shroud hanging over every house and stretching across the intersection. Finally I got my bearings, turned right, and headed home.
As leaders, when we experience brain fog at work, it can be equally unnerving. And unproductive. And tiring.
And reversible.
1. Stop what you’re doing. As soon as you recognize you’re in pea soup and as soon as you’re able, take a 5-10 minute break. Truly, the sooner the better because you can’t make much headway in the fog anyway.
2. Get quiet and still. Find a place to be alone, maybe pull your chair away from your desk, and breathe. No kidding. Take a slow, full, deep breath and let it out just as slowly. Try to take just five or six complete breaths in a minute instead of shallow breathing. Keep breathing that way throughout your break.
3. Connect with God. Tell your heavenly Father what’s up, and consciously reflect on Him. Talk to Him in a slow-paced way, similar to the way you’re breathing. Revel in His goodness. Remember His faithfulness. Feel His love. Listen for His perspective. Watch the fog lift.
God made us spirit, soul, and body. When we slow down and engage Him with our whole self, He can bring strength and peace to our whole being.
“Slow down to engage God with your whole self and He’ll bring strength to your whole being.”
- Lisa Hosler
For thus said the Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel, “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength.” Isaiah 30:15
How do you deal with brain fog? Feel free to share your thoughts in the Comment Section below.
