A topic that comes up often for me and my clients is overthinking. If you’ve ever found yourself caught in a spiral of “what-ifs” or endlessly analyzing past conversations, you’re not alone.
Overthinking often comes from a place of care and a desire for success. It means something meaningful seems to be on the line. It’s our mind’s way of trying to protect us. We think if we consider every possible outcome, we can prevent pain, failure, or vulnerability of some kind.
Overthinking is often a trauma or stress response. For some of us, living in our heads became a survival strategy. It felt safer to analyze and plan than to be present with difficult emotions or bodily sensations.
Here’s a reframe: Overthinking isn’t inherently bad. It’s just one way we’ve learned to navigate life’s challenges. It’s a testament to your mind’s capacity for complex thought and your deep care for your life and loved ones.
But, maybe there’s another way of approaching challenges that can support our strong minds: trust. This doesn’t mean blind faith, but rather a grounded confidence in our ability to meet fear with what it needs on a deeper level. But, how do we cultivate trust? With mindful awareness.
Here’s a simple practice to help cultivate trust:
The “This Too” Exercise:
- When you notice yourself overthinking, pause.
- Take a full body breath; feel the length of your spine, and feet on the ground.
- Say to yourself: “This too, I can handle.”
- Bring to mind a past challenge you’ve overcome.
- Remind yourself: “Just as I handled that, I can handle this.”
This isn’t about solutions. This practice acknowledges your capacity while gently redirecting your mind from analysis paralysis to present moment confidence from which you can navigate more effectively.
If you’re finding it challenging to shift out of overthinking patterns, know that it’s okay. These habits run deep, and changing them takes time, patience, and trust.
Reach out. My group and I are here to support you.
Until next Thursday, may you find moments of peace amidst the chatter of your brilliant mind.
Warmly,
Elana
