Overthinking will get you nowhere

Overthinking is the easiest way to create problems that weren’t even there and to complicate your life. If we know it’s bad, why do we do it and how can one ditch this nasty habit?

My Twitter bio says:” I think I think too much.” Besides using it to be funny/sarcastic/ quirky on social media, I can actually say that that sentence describes me very well. Another one that also fits is “Maybe I’m indecisive, but maybe I’m not.” (Get it? We’ll get to my indecisiveness some other time). Mixing overthinking and being indecisive can complicate my life on daily basis, which is why I’ve decided to get my brain to thought rehab.

I already told you about my journey to recovering from perfectionism. Now I hope that I can also manage my overthinking, and make it my friend and not the enemy. I want to work on it because it’s time and energy consuming. Also, because it’s not an efficient tool to fix problems, but more like a super efficient way to create new ones. It also feels like I’m torturing my brain, or my brain is torturing me. When I get into my overthinking mode, my usual ways of thinking don’t work anymore and my imagination goes wild. Usually it goes in the bad direction, making everything seem bigger and more complicated than it is. Luckily, I found a few ways that help me stop my brain from exploding, and help me get back on track.

I’ve heard so many people recommend meditation that I started seeing it as some magical solution. When I first tried it I just couldn’t do it! I just didn’t get it and I was totally puzzled by why everyone else seemed to swear by it. After trying guided meditations (like the ones form Headspace app), I totally understood. Getting your brain into quiet and relaxed place for 10 minutes per day can really make a big difference. Meditation really helps when you feel overpowered by your thoughts and I warmly recommend trying it.

Another thing that gets me clarity is going for a walk. It is amazing how a short walk can help you clear your head and refresh. Leave your phone at home and just start walking. Another magical trick is singing. Did you know that when you sing you are only focused on what you’re doing and have no other thoughts in your head. Magical, right? You are very present in the moment and we all know that mindfulness is the key. Also, we shouldn’t underestimate just how much fun singing is! My favourite location for it is the shower, no doubt. Also, making things with our hands is something that occupies our attention, leaving little room for raging thoughts. For me baking has proven to be quite helpful and not to mention delicious. Other than that, a good workout session is always helpful to sweat it all out.

Are you also an over-thinker? Do you use any of these methods? Do you use any other helpful ways to fight it? Please share your experience with us in the comments bellow.