Overcome Overthinking

It's the e-mail draft you can't bring yourself to send

It's the social replays after an event or interaction

It's the analysis paralysis around decisions

It's the constant worry that leaves your stomach in knots

You are overthinking.

What’s happening when your mind goes into overthinking mode? It is trying to protect you. Our mind has perceived a level of danger (think: conflict, shame, failure, isolation) and is working hard to try to avoid that very thing.

Subconsciously, your mind is saying “if you think about this enough, you will find the perfect solution, avoid conflict, be liked or accepted by others, or avoid being alone.” We sense that more thinking equals more protection.

But what actually happens? We feel stuck. We feel paralyzed in indecision. We are overworking. We are anxious. It is like pedaling on your bike desperately trying to get to a destination, but you're stuck on your Peloton. Totally stationary. Your thoughts are no longer productive. The good news is, you can redirect your mind. Yes, overthinking is a tendency you possess, but you also have the ability to get out of your head and make space for things that matter.

I created a guide laying out the different types of overthinking we tend to get stuck in and how to respond in the moment. You can snag it here.

Check it out and let me know what type of overthinker you are - and what strategies help you the most!