How to Use the Free Brain Dump Template to Ease Your Mind
Many of us experience a restless mind at one time or another. Perhaps it’s anxiety. Or we’re ruminating about a difficult event. Or we just can’t seem to stop racing thoughts.
The mind feels like a tangled web of thoughts and emotions. And it’s almost impossible to straighten it out. In this state, sleep is incredibly difficult. And as a result, it’s tough to continue with our good habits.
So, what can we do to alleviate our mental overload? Try this brain dump template!
What is a “Brain Dump”?
A brain dump is a tool to declutter your runaway mind. It’s the process of dumping out the contents of your mind onto a sheet of paper. Think of it like purging your home, and how good it feels to get all of that unnecessary stuff out!
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How Do You Write a Brain Dump?
This exercise is incredibly simple. First, find a pen and blank paper or use the template below.
Now, dump your mind – make lists and write until you feel the restlessness inside you begin to settle. This could take only a few minutes or much longer – but don’t stop until your mind eases.
Check out the video below for more on why a brain dump is so beneficial:
Brain Dump Examples
The following two categories are what often keep me up at night, therefore this brain dump template focuses on them.
To – do List Items
First, write out anything you need to do in the next day, week, or month. All of those obligations swirling around in your head go on the paper!
Examples include:
- Get medicine for a pet
- Sign the kids up for a school event
- Clean the bathroom
- Make a dentist appt
- Call a client for work
- Email a teacher
- Modify a schedule
- Complete a project
Common Worries & Stressors
Next, write down anything you’re worried about or that is causing even the slightest amount of stress.
Examples include:
- A fight with a loved one
- Negative news (nationally or personally)
- A sick family member or friend
- Job security
- Finances
- An issue with the kids
- Health and fitness
- Relationships
You can also separate a mind dump into different categories like me/house/kids/work if you prefer a different way of organizing your thoughts. Everyone is different, but sometimes a specific guide works wonders in helping you let go of the details and write.
Free Brain Dump Worksheet
Download it below!
Mind Dump Supplies
You might as well use some fun pens as you ease your burdens! So, check these out…
What should I Do After a Brain Dump?
Finally, evaluate your lists.
Is there one thing that could be causing you to spiral?
Or a specific category that’s overshadowing your thoughts?
Note it. Then, write more about your thoughts and feelings on this particular topic at the bottom of your brain dump template. Especially if your emotions are negative, writing can be an extremely therapeutic session.
For other life-saving list tools, check out
And for other ways to care for your mental health, get the free 2 page self-care toolkit below! Or check out the full uplifting self-care planner HERE >>
And check out these recent stress relief posts:
Is This Only For Night?
Most often we think of this as a night time activity to help us sleep. And it certainly will. But it’s also possible to do this activity in the morning!
A mind dump can be a great way to clear your mind for the day ahead. Focus and productivity will soar if you take a few minutes when you first wake to get all of the little nagging thoughts out of your head. Try it and see!
*Check out these other amazing things to do in the morning. >>
Something to Consider With a Mind Dump
I hope you enjoy the free brain dump template! May it get those toxic and spiral thoughts out of your system for good!
Have you ever done a mind dump? What did you think?