Wednesday

"When you surround yourself with things that spark joy, you create a life you love." - Marie Kondo

Welcome to Wednesday! Today, we're chatting about:

• A clear space for a clear mind

• What is digital hoarding?

• The whole body benefits of creatine

• The KonMari Method explained

• How to get paid up to 2 days early

How A Clear Space Can Clear Your Mind

For many of us, a tidy workspace is essential for focusing—but does a clean environment always lead to a clearer mind? According to experts, it depends on the person and the situation. Research from Princeton shows that clutter competes for your brain's attention, leading to distractions. A clean desk might seem like the perfect way to get started, but it can sometimes be a form of procrastination.

Some people thrive in organized chaos. Creative types, like writers and artists, often find that a bit of clutter sparks inspiration. This disarray doesn't usually last, though. Once the creative flow ends, they’ll clean up again to reset for the next wave of ideas.

For others, clutter is a major roadblock. The mess can feel overwhelming, blocking productivity and creativity. Decluttering, even for just a few minutes, can help clear mental space and provide a sense of accomplishment. This can make it easier to dive into a project.

Ultimately, if cleaning becomes an obstacle to starting something important, it’s time to rethink your pre-task rituals.

What Is Digital Hoarding?

We all know the joy that comes from cleaning up a messy room, but what about your digital space?

From unused apps to a never-ending Netflix queue, digital clutter can weigh just as heavily on our minds as physical mess. Psychologist Barry Schwartz points out that more choices don’t necessarily bring happiness, and a digital purge might be the refreshing change you need.

Start by getting rid of useless apps. If there’s an app on your phone that you rarely use, delete it. It’s amazing how freeing it can be to clear out that digital junk. Similarly, items you’ve kept for aspirational purposes, like a fitness app for a goal you’re not currently pursuing, can be removed without any loss. These things can always be downloaded again if needed.

But what about the harder tech cleanse? For some, going tech-free for a bit can feel impossible. Yet, setting boundaries like no phone use after 5 p.m. or taking tech-free Saturdays can help break the cycle of constant checking. This digital detox isn’t about deprivation; it’s about recharging and reconnecting with the things that matter most.

Not Just For Your Muscles: Your Whole Body Needs Creatine

Creatine isn’t only about strength—it also supports cognitive performance. Research shows it can help improve mental clarity, quicker recall, and sustained focus during demanding tasks. But not all creatine is equal. Momentous Creapure Creatine Monohydrate is pure, effective, and rigorously tested, trusted by over 200 professional and collegiate teams. Certified by NSF and Informed Sport, it ensures you’re truly maximizing the benefits every scoop delivers.

Sharpen your mind and body—use code WELLPUT to get up to 35% off Momentous Creatine at livemomentous.com.

Thank you to Momentous for sponsoring Note To Self. 

The KonMari Method Explained

We all know that physical clutter can leave us feeling drained and overwhelmed. But what if the key to feeling better is simply tidying up? The KonMari Method, popularized by Marie Kondo, shows us that decluttering is more than just a clean space—it’s an opportunity for transformation.

Marie’s approach is different from most. Instead of tidying room by room, she encourages tidying by category, starting with clothes, then books, papers, miscellaneous items, and finally, sentimental things. This method helps you get a clear sense of what you truly love, which is the heart of the process. It’s not about getting rid of everything. It’s about choosing what sparks joy.

While it’s tempting to discard items quickly, the KonMari Method also asks us to be mindful. Rather than rushing, ask yourself: Does this item bring me joy? The act of releasing what no longer serves you makes space for new experiences and positive energy.

The benefits of tidying are far-reaching: it gives us the clarity to live the life we truly want. Plus, when you approach tidying with intention, you start to see your surroundings and yourself in a new light.

Make Your Paychecks Work for You

When you set up direct deposit with Cash App, you can get paid up to 2 days early. That means less planning around payday, more living on your own schedule.

And that’s just the start:

• Put a percentage of every paycheck toward savings, stocks, or bitcoin*

• Keep all of your money with no monthly or hidden fees

• Make your money go further with 3.5% interest** on savings and up to $200 in free overdraft coverage***

• Know your money is protected by 24/7 fraud monitoring and built-in security features

Speed up payday.

Cash App is a financial platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See Terms & Conditions. To view the eligibility requirements for sponsoring a teen, please visit the Sponsored Accounts section of the Cash App Terms of Service.

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

• ✅ Did You Know: The Japanese concept of "Ma" refers to the beauty of simplicity and space, emphasizing calm and balance. “Ma" encourages the appreciation of empty spaces, creating a sense of tranquility and harmony in both physical spaces and life.

• 🌅 Sunset Of The Day: Sunsets are more than beautiful—they’re actually good for your mood. Got a favorite one? Reply to this email with your best sunset or sunrise photo for a chance to be featured!

• 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: Simplicity allows us to focus on what truly matters, bringing clarity, balance, and peace to our lives.

Enjoying Note to Self?

Know of a great self-care tip or article you'd love to share with the community? Want to send us pictures of you completing one of your self-care rituals? Email us at [email protected]!