You Overthink Because You’re Afraid—Here’s How To Calm Your Mind

 

When you overthink, it feels like you’re in control. You’re trying to avoid mistakes, risks and imperfect choices. While this may be good to some extent, it’s just fear disguised as carefulness. 

In contrast to what you think, you’re not aiming for perfection by overthinking. You’re in doubt, afraid of uncertainties, failure and even judgment. Let’s say you’re invited out to a night party, instantly your mind goes: 

“What if I get robbed?”

“What if I don’t fit in?”

Or perhaps you want to apply for a job, then you start to think; 

“Am I the best man for this job? I’m sure there are better applicants than I.”

“What if I embarrass myself there?”

You find yourself doubting everything and expecting worst-case scenarios. You’re not willing to take the risk. Several options are playing out in your head, but none feel safe. 

Now, Here’s How You Quiet The Storm. 

Recognize when you start to overthink. 

You might be overthinking and you won’t be aware you’re doing so. Know when you begin to doubt yourself, like thinking your spouse somewhere is cheating on you without evidence, or that you might fail an interview. If you’re imagining worst-case scenarios? That’s your signal for control. 

Refresh your mind. 

Once you know you’re overthinking, interrupt the thoughts. Step away, breathe, and refresh your mind. Do something that will take your mind away from thinking. You can take a walk or listen to music, just do something that will bring you back to the physical. 

Name your fear. 

What exactly are you afraid of? Why are you overthinking? Are you scared of failing, or are you scared of what people may think? If you are scared of failing, ask yourself why you feel that way. Are you scared of failing an exam because you’ve not read your books? Or because you may forget what you read? When you name your fear, you can separate fact from fear. 

Develop a problem-solving mindset. 

You’re afraid of something; instead of imagining the worst scenarios, find a solution to your fear. You think you might fail your exams, then read. Are you scared of failing an interview? Then, prepare yourself well. That way, you’ll build confidence rather than wallow in fear. 

Your mind isn’t the enemy, it’s trying to protect you. Just listen, weigh your options and lead. You’re always in control.