In this first episode of the Clutter-free Mind Show (so excited about this!), I chat with NJ Shelsby, a time freedom coach and Microsoft veteran with over 20 years of experience helping people make peace with their relationship to time.

What's in this episode?

Ever felt like there's never enough time in the day, no matter how hard you try? You're definitely not alone! NJ and I dive deep into why our modern brains are constantly overwhelmed and what we can actually do about it.

Some of the goodness we explore:

• How our caveman brains aren't built for notification pings (they trigger the same fight-or-flight response as danger did for our ancestors!)
• Why ambitious women always feel like they're running behind, despite working harder than ever
• NJ's surprisingly simple three-pillar time freedom framework that works with your brain instead of against it
• How those "just checking" moments on your phone create mental "open loops" that drain your focus and energy
• The fascinating connection between mental clarity, time management, and feeling purposeful in your life

What I particularly loved about this conversation is how NJ combines neuroscience with practical application. It's not just theory—it's stuff you can actually use tomorrow to start feeling less scattered and more in control.

NJ shares her journey from discovering Franklin Covey's methods in her early career to adapting those principles for our hyper-connected digital age. She also offers insights on how to use AI as your personal assistant (without drowning in even more tech options).

Whether you're feeling constantly behind on your to-do list or just wanting more mental bandwidth for the things that truly matter, this conversation might be exactly what your busy brain needs right now.

Practical tips

• Don't "just check" your phone or email - always schedule time to both check AND respond.
• Use AI tools to handle repetitive tasks and save hours of work
• Consider visual reminders (like Zita's "chickpea challenge") to increase awareness of phone usage

Resources mentioned

• NJ's free guide: "How I Save 10+ Hours a Week Using AI" at njshelsby.com/gift

Connect with NJ Shelsby

• Website: njshelsby.com
• Instagram: @njshel
• LinkedIn & Facebook: NJ Shelsby

Send me a text

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Get ready for more insights about your beautiful brain and practical strategies for mental clarity. Because honestly, couldn't we all use a little more peace upstairs? :)