Thoughts are good always. But the thoughts which are disturbing us and make to step back from our responsibilities are not a good sign. Over thinking can cause worst life situations. Do you want to know, whether you are thinking too much? It is something as when you have a few quiet moments to yourself, only to immediately start wondering if you forgot to send that thank-you email or whether you’ve overestimated your chances of getting the promotion.
1. Step Back and Look at how you’re Responding
The way you respond to your thoughts can sometimes keep you in a cycle of rumination, or repetitive thinking. Rumination can often cause negative consequences Trusted Source to a person’s mental health.
The next time you find yourself continuously running things over in your mind, take note of how it affects your mood. Do you feel irritated, nervous, or guilty? What’s the primary emotion behind your thoughts?
Having self-awareness is key to changing your mindset.
2. Find a Distraction
Even though you are involving in an activity, your thoughts may have roaming on some other thoughts. You just shut down your overthinking.
This looks different for everyone, but ideas include:
learning some new kitchen skills by tackling a new recipe
going to your favorite workout class
taking up a new hobby, such as painting
volunteering with a local organization
It can be hard to start something new when you’re overwhelmed by your thoughts. If finding a distraction feels daunting, try setting aside a small chunk of time — say, 30 minutes — every other day.
3. Take a Deep Breath
You’ve heard it a million times, but that’s because it works. The next time you find yourself tossing and turning over your thoughts, close your eyes and breathe deeply.
Here’s a good starter exercise to help you unwind with your breath:
Find a comfortable place to sit and relax your neck and shoulders.
Place one hand over your heart and the other across your belly.
Inhale and exhale through your nose, paying attention to how your chest and stomach move as you breathe.
4. Meditate
Developing a regular meditation practice is a very effective thing.
5. Do Something Good for Someone Else
Trying to ease the load for someone else can help you put things in perspective. Think of ways you can be of service to someone going through a difficult time.