Today I’d like you to take part in an exercise with me. You’ll need 10 minutes, a computer, or some pen and paper.

We’re going to experiment with some free association writing.

Here is how it works: I sit down in front of a computer, close my eyes, and then just type as fast as I can about whatever I want. Sometimes I write about my problems, other times just thoughts about the world, or how I’m feeling.

There are no “right” or “wrong” words. There is no spell-checking. There are simply the ideas, my body that types down the thoughts, and the computer. And that’s it.

The purpose is to bring to the surface all that you’re feeling and thinking, to expel it, and to release it and let it go.

It’s okay if you don’t have answers or feel scared.

All that matters is that you close your eyes and just let your mind open up and your thoughts come out.

If you’re not good at typing or don’t have a computer, use a pen and paper.

When you’re finished writing, don’t save your work. And if you wrote on paper, throw it out.

We’re looking to release and expel the thoughts going through you and to be free of it.

I’ve used this technique when I’m going through a difficult problem and all feels lost.

If writing isn’t your thing, give it a try, but if you don’t get anything out of the exercise after trying it once or twice, then I’d recommend trying a different method: Dance, sculpt, or draw. Find a way to create something and channel your energy into it.

Freeing yourself up of the emotions and thoughts inside can help you find clarity.

Like what you’ve read? Be sure to check out my other posts in my Let Go and Be Free blog.