11 Simple Tricks to Stop Yourself from Overthinking Everything Morgan Cutolo ( courtecy;reader's digest )

EVERYDAY WELLNESS

11 Simple Tricks to Stop Yourself from Overthinking Everything

Morgan Cutolo

Thinking too much can trap the brain in a worry cycle. When you find yourself going round-and-round over an issue, try using some of these tips.

Learn to be aware

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The first step to stopping yourself from overthinking is to learn when you are doing it. Whenever you notice yourself feeling stressed or anxious take a step back and survey the whole situation. Once you learn to catch yourself overthinking early on, you’ll be able to stop it from happening so often. Try these mindfulness tips to live in the moment.

Get a second opinion

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You’re used to going it alone, but the old adage two heads are better than one is a good mantra for you. Ask someone else about the point you’re overthinking and see what he or she have to say. Also try out these genius brain exercises before you head off to work in the morning.

Stay positive

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Many times people start to overthink because they are scared. They think of all of the possible things that could potentially go wrong. Instead, start to picture all of the things that can go right and keep those thoughts in the front of your mind. Theses are things that optimistic people do every single day.

Look for distractions

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When you begin overthinking, get up and change places. Studies show that a new vantage point can be enough to shake you out of a fruitless thought process. You can also try distracting yourself with a new hobby such as running, dancing, knitting, or learning an instrument.

Make visual clues

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Keep a handwritten stop sign on your desk or bathroom mirror. Visual clues can cut down on excessive thinking. Try these ways to become a more creative thinker.

Stop being a perfectionist

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Things never go according to plan, and that is just something everyone has to get used to. Keep yourself from thinking that everything has to be perfect. It’s more important to find satisfaction in making progress than in everything being perfect. These are some clear signs that you’re a perfectionist.

Envision a happy ending

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Praying or meditating on a positive outcome will block confusing or negative thoughts. Picturing the end goal can help to easy your anxiety and keep you motivated.

Set a timer

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When you give yourself too much time to make a decision it can lead to overthinking. You’ll view the situation from too many angles and outcomes and end up stressing yourself out. Set a time limit for yourself of how long you think about something before making a decision. Adjust that time depending on how big of a decision it is.