Overthinking Makes You Unhappy: Here’s How to Stop it!

I spent almost a decade battling it out with overthinking, and let me tell you, it was a journey. But hey, I found eight ways to kick overthinking to the curb, and I’m sharing them with you:

 

1. The real problem isn’t always what you think. Trust me, most of the trouble brews in your mind – a whopping 99%. Reality, the actual events, and the outcomes contribute just 1% to the mess. So, oftentimes, it’s not the problem that’s the problem; it’s your thoughts about it.

2. Say no to self-rejection. Ever feel like you don’t deserve something? Apply for it anyway. Doubting your article? Publish it. Skeptical about getting a reply to your email? Send it. Don’t let overthinking lead you to self-rejection.

3. Silence and time are golden. Here’s a nugget of wisdom: not all problems are solved by more thinking. Answers often lurk in silence, with time, and a clear mind. If a problem isn’t budging, stop the mental gymnastics.

4. Ask the important question. When your inner critic goes on a rampage or you foresee doom at every turn, pause and ask yourself: “Can I do something right now to change the past or positively impact the future?” Act if yes; let it go if no. Everything else is just self-inflicted harm.

 

5. Embrace the power of now. Face it, you won’t think your way into a better past or future. All you’ve got is now. What you do with this moment can reconcile your past and shape your future. Make peace with yesterday, release tomorrow, and seize today.

6. Fact-check your thoughts. Your mind can conjure up scenarios fueled by insecurities and fears. Fact-check your thoughts before buying into them, especially in emotionally charged situations. Your thoughts might be telling you tall tales.

7. Peace lies in acceptance. Anxiety won’t rewrite your past or future. Find peace in acceptance – imperfections, uncertainties, and things beyond your control. You don’t have to love, like, or forget; just accept.

8. Health begins in your mind. Sure, hit the gym, eat kale, do yoga, hydrate, pop vitamins, but don’t neglect your mind. If you don’t tackle the negativity in your thoughts, you’re not truly “HEALTHY”. Face those mental hurdles head-on.

So, kick back, take a breath, and let go of the overthinking. Your happiness will thank you for it.

Author Isabel Allende’s Journey of Love, Violence & Redemption