Traits Of An Over-Thinker
This is not the first time you have been caught in a tornado of overthinking, and it won’t be the last. The main problem with racking your brain is it can lead to anxiety and procrastination. Here are a few of the main characteristics that are coupled with overthinking and some tips on how to combat the unhealthy mental trait.
Feeling exhausted and overwhelmed by decision-making
We as individuals love choices and options. Sometimes it can become easy to be overwhelmed if we are presented with too many options. The key to staying focused in your decision-making and thought process is approaching situations and opportunities one-by-one as they occur. Break down what would be healthiest for you, mentally work through alternatives, and think about how your options will affect you in the long run.
Feeling consumed by thoughts and unable to rest
As stated above, life and all it has to offer can feel paralyzing at times. It is best to avoid restlessness by addressing inconveniences and emotions as they come. Some days it seems like as soon as our heads hit the pillow, we begin creating a mental to-do list filled with thousands of tasks. A few options to help with easing your mind would be to make a list. Write down tasks that need to be completed or keep a journal to expel your thoughts. Move emotions and things you need to do out of your head space and onto paper; doing this will free up your mentality and allow a dopamine reward once you have successfully utilized your day.
Reminiscing on past conversations and scenarios
In most cases, when an overthinker closes their eyes, it seems to open up a space to relive old awkward conversations, poor decisions, and cringe-worthy moments. The beautiful reality about the past is, it is gone and absolutely over with. Reliving old memories can be an enjoyable experience, but constantly revisiting the past is mentally unhealthy and a waste of time. The1994 animated film, The Lion King's wise monkey guide Rafiki said it best. "The past can hurt, but you can either run from it or learn from it.”
Heavily relying on others to validate your choices
During the adolescent to early adult years, a sad and significant amount of time is spent worrying about what our peers think of us. We, as social creatures, feel the need to bond with others concerning whatever is trending. But as older and more evolved adults, that should not be the case. Heavily depending on others creates a codependent relationship and does not allow space for individuality to develop.
Not trusting decisions if they seem too easy to make
Trust your gut. Your instincts were intentionally created to help you with your life decisions. If a decision seems simple to form, it might be due to your past experiences or prior knowledge. Try not to question what appears natural for you. Once again, you could be wasting time on a decision you are only circling back around to land on a second time.
Excessively planning to feel in control
We here at JA adore a great planning session. Lists, tasks, accomplishments, that's our jam. Excessive planning or micromanaging to feel in control is another unfortunate trait of overthinking. A great way to avoid planning your day minute-to-minute is to make a list that only consists of overall goals. For example Handling emails may be the title of the chore, but that will include deleting unnecessary junk mail, replying to work emails, and saving critical information. Keep your tasks general and straightforward.
