The verb to overthink has been defined by many as ‘dwelling or worrying about the same thought incessantly, in an unhealthy manner”. It entails struggles in decision-making and paralyzing the mind into un-fixable situations. If underestimated, overthinking can contribute to anxiety and mental health disorders.
How many of us have turned the car window into a movie screen on which to analyze our lives? How many of us have happened to stare at the shower glass trying to justify our choices?
Finding yourself in the gap of eternal overthinking can be quite scary, we can’t deny it. However, what is important is how we decide to face it.
We will not define ‘overthinking’ as a problem nor as an issue, rather as a challenge that our strong souls have to face and overcome.
Every day so many people out there find themselves wondering what is wrong with them and why are they not good enough.
Overcoming challenges does take time. Each one of us is different, and there is no right or wrong answer to how much time is needed to reduce overthinking. The paths that behaviors follow are deeply subjective and linked to our personal experiences and feelings.
Never should you scold yourself angrily for putting too many thoughts on a matter. Being hard on yourself is the unhealthiest option you could undertake.
Instead, aim at being aware of the process itself and the fact that it requires effort and patience.
Here’s a Ten-Step Guide written by an overthinker to inspire many others to start taking action and working toward the important change.
1. Some situations will forever be out of your control. Be aware of your range of influence and recognize its boundaries.
2. Don’t live in the past.
3. Learn how to cultivate your potential to reap future opportunities.
4. Take a moment to focus on yourself and your goals. Keep track of your progress.
5. Spend some time for yourself; give voice to your passions and hobbies.
6. The only person who can judge your choices is you. Do not worry about others’ opinions.
7. We cannot change the past, hence, asking ‘what if’ will have no impact on the future.
8. Learn how to recognize negative thinking and aim to address them.
9. Focus on the small steps and recognize your triumphs.
10. Try spending time outside every day, free your mind and enjoy the silence.
