Stop Overthinking
Nick Trenton
What’s in it for me? Learn how to deal with intrusive thoughts and emotions.
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Overthinking isn’t about thinking too much. It’s about being stuck in a loop of thoughts that don’t lead to any real answers.
With practice, we can get better at managing our thoughts.
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we can learn to trust ourselves more and break the habit of overthinking.
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Before engaging with our anxious thoughts, we can take a moment, challenge them with clarity and empathy, and create a positive space around them.
Use the four A’s to influence and improve your worldview.
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By recognizing your triggers and knowing when it’s time to take a step back, you’re taking control of your well-being.
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So remind yourself that it is OK to avoid a problematic situation and that saying “no” is justified.
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Remember, you often have the power to alter your environment.
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you can’t always control the outside world. And actually, that shouldn’t be a priority. Instead, work on accepting what you can’t change. That way, you can appreciate and savor the moment without feeling constrained or inhibited.
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Being optimistic rather than pessimistic allows you to actively resist fears and better deal with them in the long run.
A SMART checklist can set you up for success.
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First, start by writing down your goals and tasks for the day. Seeing what’s ahead helps solidify the activities in your mind.
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Second, analyze how much time you devote to each task.
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Third, block in time for breaks, and plan for any obstacles you might encounter.
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Don’t let life pass you by–take charge, and shape a schedule that reflects your goals.
Use visualization and progressive muscle relaxation to quickly calm your mind and body.
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Try picturing an image that brings you peace and harmony. Spend five to ten minutes focusing on and immersing yourself in it. When you finish your mental escape, imagine folding it up and storing it in your pocket so you can access it later. When you’re done, gently open your eyes and stretch your body. Take some slow, deep breaths. With practice and dedication, you can now relax your body and mind whenever you need to unwind.
Cognitive behavioral therapy stops automated thinking.
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when a severe negative emotion strikes, ask yourself, “Have I considered all the factors before forming an opinion? Am I making an assumption? Is my response something I’m choosing consciously, or is it just a knee-jerk reaction based on habit?” Finally, jot down at least three possible alternatives for your disrupted thoughts.
The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique reduces anxiety and stress.
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Start by identifying five things around you–for instance, a lamp, painting, window frame, rug, and vase. Next, identify four physical sensations–like your feet on the ground, your breath in your chest, a blanket against your skin, and the sun on your face. Now, listen. What three sounds can you hear? Maybe it’s birds chirping, wind blowing, and someone talking. Note two smells. This could be a neighbor’s garden flowers and freshly brewed coffee. Finally, taste. One cookie or a cup of tea might do. Or maybe it’s the taste of freshly brushed teeth!