How Full Is Your Invisible Backpack?
Between everything happening in the world and the constant juggle of daily life, it can sometimes feel like there’s just too much going on. Maybe it’s because we’re edging towards summer and everyone’s trying to wrap things up before the holidays. Or maybe it’s just that I’ve been trying to do too much without really finishing anything. You know those mental tabs that are always open, running quietly in the background?
The work presentation you haven’t started.
That friend you keep meaning to call.
The hair appointment you still haven’t booked.
Or the cupboard that needs sorting.
And the news headlines that make your stomach churn.
A couple of years ago, I wrote an article about staying grounded when everything feels uncertain. It was during the pandemic, but honestly… the same message still applies.
There will always be uncertainty.
There will always be things we can’t control.
And there will always be that mental to-do list of shoulds.
As James Clear says:
“There are two ways to lighten the load of our invisible backpack: finish the task or let it go.”
Simple in theory. Not always easy in practice.
Lately I’ve been trying to do just that.
Letting go of the need to constantly check the news.
I’ve let go of the disappointment of losing my 967-day Duolingo streak (!)
The pressure I’d put on myself to finish my Ayurveda Practitioner course by the end of the month. (I’m on the final module — so close!)
The real challenge, I think, is learning to recognise what deserves our mental energy… and what doesn’t.
When I find myself spiralling into “what if” thinking, I’ve learned to pause and ask:
What can I actually do right now about this situation?
Most of the time, the answer is either nothing or something far smaller and more manageable than my mind is making it out to be.
What I’ve come to understand:
We can’t control the world around us. But we can choose what we carry in our invisible backpack. Some things belong there the people we love, the work that really matters. But a lot of what we’re holding onto? It’s just mental clutter and it’s quietly weighing us down.
Find a Mindful Moment This Week
If your mind feels a little crowded, take a few moments to pause and reflect:
- How likely is this to happen?
- Has this ever happened before?
- Is this thought true — or just familiar?
- If it did happen, would I be strong enough to handle it?
- What can I do right now to ease this feeling?
Weekly Words to Inspire
“The best way to take care of the future is to take care of the present moment.” Thich Nhat Hanh
Everything I share with you here comes from the practices and reflections that support me in my own life. I hope they support you in yours, too.
If this resonated, you might like my Sunday emails.
Balance and Breath is a weekly pause for women with busy lives and busy minds who want to feel more present, more balanced and more like themselves.
Every Sunday, I share honest reflections and simple practices from Traditional Yoga, meditation and Ayurveda to help you find a little more calm and space in everyday life.
And when you join, I’ll send you my free 10-minute Yoga Nap to help you pause, deeply relax and feel like yourself again.
