Overthinking is a common problem that affects many individuals. It’s akin to a mental hamster wheel, a constant cycle of thoughts that can be difficult to break free from. I, too, have had overthinking from time to time, from replaying various scenarios in my head, giving too much thought about an incident that occurred at work, or overthinking an interaction without someone and how it could have gone differently.
In this blog post, we shall explore the nature of overthinking and its impacts, and I will share some techniques I have used to overcome it.
Understanding Overthinking
Before we delve into solutions, it’s essential to understand what overthinking is and why it happens. Overthinking is the process of continuously analyzing one’s thoughts or decisions, often leading to a state of paralysis where one is unable to move forward. Various factors, including stress, anxiety, or a significant life event, can trigger it. It’s a problem that can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or life circumstances. Some people use overthinking as a coping mechanism because it gives a false sense of being in control.
At some point in life, we have all been guilty of this and allowing the rumination of our thoughts to get the best of us. This is okay. Do not judge yourself for it or be hard on yourself. Be encouraged to take the appropriate steps to overcome overthinking.
The Impact of Overthinking
On the surface, overthinking might seem like a harmless habit. After all, what’s wrong with thinking things through thoroughly? It is a way the brain goes into trying to protect you, soothe you, serve as an attempt to problem solve, or provide you with a sense of control. However, overthinking often leads to the opposite of thoroughness. It can lead to a state of inaction, and the fear of making the wrong decision can be so great that it prevents any decision from being made at all. Overthinking can lead to things such as missed opportunities and regret, and, for some, it can lead to more severe issues such as mental health challenges and diagnoses related to anxiety and depression.
How to Overcome Overthinking
Fortunately, overthinking is not a life sentence. There are strategies and techniques that can be employed to overcome this mental hurdle. Here are a few to consider that I have tried myself:
- Mindfulness and Meditation: One of the most common ways to address overthinking is to practice mindfulness and meditation. This includes paying attention to the present moment, accepting your thoughts and emotions, releasing judgment, and then letting them go. Developing this skill takes time, but with regular practice, it can be an influential tool in breaking the cycle of overthinking. I meditate daily for at least five minutes. A brief meditation is a safe and judgment-free zone for me. It allows me to bring a sense of calmness. At other times, I meditate for an extended period so that I can recenter myself and regulate my system. It has been one of the most accessible and convenient techniques.
- Physical Activity: Being active and engaging in physical activities such as sports, yoga, or dance are always beneficial. When your body is active, your mind tends to follow. This can help to break the cycle of constant thought and provide a much-needed distraction. I participate in dance weekly, allowing me to be myself and let go of any negative thoughts, including releasing any situations that have taken over my mind. Daily, I exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. It has helped to make my mind more clear. Leaving my workouts, I have improved self-esteem, I am motivated, and, most importantly, being occupied with my workouts makes me forget all those problems that take me down the path of replaying thoughts that do not serve me.
- Set Aside a Specific Time for Reflection: Another strategy is to set aside a specific time each day for reflection. This allows you to give your thoughts the attention they deserve without allowing them to consume your entire day. Once your reflection time is over, make a conscious effort to move on to other activities. I reflect by journaling while playing soft music in the background. This is probably my favorite tool when I find myself caught up in overthinking because it is a healthy outlet for getting out what I am feeling, my emotions, and my thoughts.
- Seek Professional Help: If overthinking is causing significant distress, seeking professional help from therapists and psychologists trained to provide valuable tools and strategies can be helpful. I have done therapy, and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself and my mental health.
Overcoming the hurdle of overthinking can be challenging. It takes time, patience, and practice. However, understanding the nature of overthinking and implementing strategies to combat it makes it possible to regain control over your thoughts and live a more peaceful, productive life.
Intuitive Intuition 