5 Things To Consider When You're Overthinking
This week I realized that in connecting with new people, or even in heart to hearts with old and dear friends, a common denominator I find between us is our habit of overthinking. Critiquing the way one of us said hello to our neighbor during our morning walk, or cringing at the way we said “thanks, you too” to the server who told us to enjoy our meal, we bonded over the idea that we are not strangers to those thoughts. While it seems that we all have been there and overthink the details of our daily life, relationships, and life events, it should not be something we can communally “normalize”. Overthinking to a certain degree is healthy and in human nature, but once it consumes your mind, it can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. Once we begin overthinking, it is a spiral that is hard to stop, and can only foster the growth of those anxious or stressful feelings. It is certainly a task that is easier said than done, but below I have included five things to bring to mind when you find yourself in an overthinking cycle to stop it in its tracks!
01
You cannot control everything in life. Try to let go of the things you cannot control.
02
Worrying and overthinking will not take you anywhere helpful or meaningful.
03
It may be a difficult realization in this moment, but most of the thoughts you are overthinking are irrational.
04
Try and become aware that most of the thoughts you are overthinking are scenarios that will never even happen.
05
Overthinking and the negative emotions associated with it will only make you feel alone. Try to let go of those emotions and engage in a conversation with a trusted friend or loved one.
