Overthinking

Overthinking…It all begins with an idea, thought, or problem. It can include “what ifs,” “how comes," and “what nows.” It can be exciting, or it can be dreadful. Our brains are natural problem solvers! For the most part, we all have plenty of work to keep our brains busy, but the question is not about whether our brains have something to work on; it’s what our brains have to work on and why. They want to work, and if they have nothing to work on, they will find something….anything is better than nothing. If you tend to “overthink” things, that is good! That means your brain is ready to work! But it can also mean that your brain has not learned the value of rest and peace and is stuck in a cycle of worry or control. In other words, if something isn’t wrong, something is wrong.

Overthinking often involves focusing on what we cannot control instead of on what we can. The goal is not to stop overthinking; the goal is to start thinking and give attention to what we can control. This shift in focus empowers us to take charge of our thoughts and actions. So, how do we do this?

• If you are struggling with “what ifs,” finish the thought. What if…you lose your job? What if…your child makes that bad decision? What if you fail that test? Just thinking through the “What ifs” is often enough to bring you into creative problem-solving and get you unstuck from the fear. This process can bring a sense of relief, liberating you from the grip of your worries.

• Ask yourself “what” questions. What questions can help engage the prefrontal cortex and help you think through your emotions instead of giving control to your emotions. What can I control? What can I do right now? What can I let go of because it is not mine? These questions can provide a sense of direction and control, reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed.

• If you have a habit of trying to control things outside of your control, ask yourself why. Is focusing on this keeping me safe, healthy, or productive? Does focusing on this make me feel better about myself or others?

• Your brain likes to learn, so teach! Teach your brain to value self-care. It can be uncomfortable, but that’s okay. If it is, ask yourself, why is this uncomfortable? Self-care is an important part of our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Teaching your brain to value self-care can be the next puzzle your brain has to figure out. If you’re going to be uncomfortable, why not be uncomfortable doing something healthy instead of focusing on something you can’t change?

Overthinking about things beyond our control triggers the release of harmful hormones like cortisol and insulin, leading to feelings of hopelessness, low energy, and a negative self-image. Conversely, focusing on self-care or manageable aspects of life triggers the release of positive hormones like serotonin and dopamine, fostering a more optimistic outlook. This shift in focus is a healthier way to function. By redirecting your attention, you can regain control and improve your well-being. You got this!

-Coach Jennie

If you find yourself constantly analyzing every decision you make, dwelling on past events, or imagining catastrophic outcomes for every situation, consider our workshop on Forgiveness and Self-Care (coming soon!) or connect with one of our coaches. Overthinking can lead to stress, anxiety, and decision paralysis. We understand the detrimental effects of overthinking on personal and professional growth. Our specialized workshops and coaching services provide strategies and techniques to help you break free from the cycle of overthinking, gain clarity, and make confident decisions. Take the first step towards a more peaceful and productive mindset today.

I would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, or questions. Please feel free to drop those in the comments section below. Let’s talk!