Ways To Overthink Less

Overthinking happens to the best of us and that is no secret. It may seem harmless because we all do it, it actually can cause more harm than we may think. Overthinking can have you focus on a certain problem oftentimes from your past or future. It can divert you from being present.

Another thing that overthinking is capable of doing is draining your energy. This loss of energy can make it harder to rest, get work done, and socialize with other people. It is sometimes thought that overthinking can be good but its origin is fear and it does not help solve problems. 

Listed below are some ways to help stop overthinking. 

1. Debunk Your thoughts of what could go wrong 
When you start to imagine every worst-case scenario ask yourself this question, “Who told you that”? Before the future has even come we sometimes imagine how things could go wrong. By asking yourself this question you can remind yourself to not give in to your fear.

2. Schedule Time to Worry and get it out

Scheduling time to worry as a way to stop worrying seems contradictory right? Well, some of our worries have validation but instead of worrying out of fear allow yourself a certain time to validate a concern you have. Use your time wisely and try problem-solving instead of problem creating.

3. Put your attention on something else
Overthinking can cause you to get in a spiral of negativity. Distract yourself when you catch yourself to begin to overthink. Listen to music. Catch up on your favorite tv show, listen to some new music, or even bake something sweet. Focus on something else other than intrusive thoughts of worry.

4. Acknowledge the good not just the bad
Although we feel inclined to point out what could go wrong, what if our “what if’s” were positive and not just negative? For example, you could score poorly on an exam but what if you did better than you thought you did. Give yourself a chance before assuming the worst.

5. Remember you are in control

Sounds like a corny line from a yoga class but it’s necessary. Acknowledge five things you see around you. Acknowledge four things you can touch around you. Acknowledge three things you hear. Acknowledge two things you can smell. Lastly, acknowledge one thing that you can taste. By doing this you can think more presently. 

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