Friday Fieldwork: Chime Check-In
Reset your racing mind — one bell at a time
Most of us start our mornings in overdrive.
Before the coffee’s even done brewing, our brains are already juggling yesterday’s problems, today’s tasks, and tomorrow’s worries. (And if you have kids, add “What’s that smell?” to the list.)
The Chime Check-In is a simple, science-backed way to interrupt that swirl.
It doesn’t require a perfect meditation spot, fancy breathing techniques, or 30 free minutes (though you can take them if you have them).
Just a bell.
A few minutes.
And the willingness to let go.
Here’s your Fieldwork:
Find somewhere quiet.
Doesn’t have to be perfect — just somewhere you’re not likely to be tackled by small children or asked where the remote is.
Set a chime for every 60 seconds.
When it rings, notice what you’re thinking. No judgment, no editing — just notice. (Yes, even if it’s “Did I ever switch the laundry?”)
Release whatever’s on your mind
Do it through prayer, gratitude, or forgiveness. Then wait for the next bell. And yes, if the next thought is “What’s for breakfast?” — let that one go too.
Why it works:
Neuroscience calls it neuroplasticity — every time you choose stillness over spiraling, gratitude over grumbling, you’re strengthening the mental pathways that make it easier to return there next time.
It interrupts fight-or-flight and monkey brain loops, calming your nervous system so you can think clearly and respond intentionally.
It’s a tiny, repeatable way to “take every thought captive” — and start your day with presence instead of pressure.
Quote to remember:
This hits. Half my mornings start with the smell test too. The chime as a mental ‘seatbelt sign’ makes sense, a cue to pause before takeoff into the day. I also love that quote to remember it’s a solid one. 🤙🏻