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The January 2012 issue of Real Simple had a great article on how to get over overthinking (a negative mental habit that too many people -- including yours truly -- battle far too often). Below is my take on the six steps recommended to kick that cycle of too-much-thinking to the curb.
6 Steps to Stop Overthinking
Step 1: Take Action. As the article says, "If the problem is specific and solvable, try to turn it into a concrete solution." Don't focus on what happened in the past (or what hasn't happened yet). Instead, focus on what you can do to improve the present moment.
Step 2: Challenge Your Beliefs. Ask yourself if what you're thinking is definitely true. (More on this can be found in Byron Katie's Loving What Is, one of my all-time favorite books). Try to think about other possible ways of looking at whatever you're thinking about.
Step 3: Distract Yourself. My mom always used distraction on us as kids and to this day I find that it's one of the best methods for dealing with almost any situation that has resulted in overthinking. Find something that will stimulate you mentally and focus your attention on that activity.
Step 4: Don't Talk It Out. Sometimes you need to share with other people, but when you're overthinking something this is a big no-no. The more you talk about something, overanalyzing it and allowing for others' comments to take you in new thinking directions, the more you're going to obsess over it.
Step 5: Practice Mindfulness. Focus on the present moment and you'll take away the power your thoughts seemingly have over you. The present moment isn't about what could have been or what could be. It's about right now.
Step 6: Be Patient. Overthinking isn't an easy habit to break so it's important to be kind to yourself as you're working on this problem. As the article reminds us, overthinking about how you can't stop overthinking isn't going to do anyone any good.
Overthinking isn't something that can be stopped over night. It takes time, patience, and practice. The more you work on the steps above, the more you'll be able to avoid overthinking. And remember: there's a difference between thinking and overthinking. Thinking is great -- inspiring, motivating, necessary for survival -- but overthinking brings nothing but stress and negativity into our lives. If you want to live a positive life, it's important to have a handle on your own mind and these tips are a great place to start!
AWESOME AWESOME AWESOME post. I needed this!
Posted by: Tara | January 23, 2012 at 10:46 AM
Tara - Thank you! I'm so glad to hear this is what you needed!
Posted by: positively present | January 23, 2012 at 05:45 PM
So true! I don't know if you had ever seen the old " Participaction" commercials back in I think the 80's? But their jingle said Don't just think about it...do it...do it...do it. Wished I could sing it for ya!
Posted by: Derrick | January 25, 2012 at 06:16 PM
Derrick - I haven't seen it, but it sounds great! And definitely perfect for people who struggle with over-thinking.
Posted by: positively present | January 25, 2012 at 06:41 PM