In life, we grapple with countless thoughts, from a small decision to a big life issue. For most of us, “thinking too much” has almost become a reflex. So, when we stop and think, is this intense mental activity really useful, or do we fall into a trap of our own creation? Understanding and dealing with excessive thinking is key for a more peaceful life.

What is Overthinking?

Overthinking is a state of constantly revolving a situation or problem in our mind. These thoughts are usually very far from solution-oriented, they have a structure that consumes our mental energy and traps us in a vicious circle.
It's like analyzing a sentence you've said in the past over and over again, or imagining a thousand and one different consequences of an event that hasn't happened yet…
Overthinking often creates the illusion of ”control". If we think about it more, we think that we will find a better solution or that we can control all the possibilities. However, the truth is the opposite: overthinking makes it difficult to make decisions and leaves us without action.

Reasons for Overthinking

The basis of overthinking usually lies in the following elements:

1. Inability to Cope with Uncertainty

Human nature does not like uncertainty. We constantly conduct analysis to eliminate uncertainty, but this process often leads us to further dead ends.

2. Perfectionism

The search for a perfect decision or solution makes our mind work extra. When we want to achieve perfect results, we analyze even the smallest detail in an exaggerated way.

3. Anxiety Disorders

Overthinking is most often associated with anxiety and stress. The “what if” scenarios in our heads lead us to the perception of a constant threat.

4. Getting Stuck In The Past

Constantly thinking about past mistakes or regrets also casts a shadow on our decisions today.

The Negative Effects of Overthinking

• Mental Fatigue: Constant thinking depletes our mental energy and makes us feel exhausted.
• Difficulty Making Decisions: We keep thinking in the hope of making a better decision, but ultimately we may not make any decisions.
• Problems in Relationships: Analyzing what is being said too much can lead to misunderstandings.
• Physical Health Problems: It can lead to an increase in the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, causing sleep problems, headaches and other health problems.

Ways to Cope with Overthinking

1. Put Your Thoughts in Writing

Write down the thoughts that are going through your mind on a piece of paper. This method embodies your thoughts and helps you to look at them from the outside.

2. Stop the Search for Perfection

The effort to make perfect decisions will only tire you out. Accept that mistakes are also a learning process.

3. Develop Awareness

When you catch yourself overthinking, even noticing it is a big step. Ask yourself the question: "What are these thoughts getting me right now?”

4. Take Mental Breaks
Meditation, yoga or a short walk in nature are great ways to calm your mind. Physical activity is also an effective method to break mental stagnation.

5. Try to Make Small Decisions

Instead of making every decision a big deal, start trying to make small decisions on simple issues.

6. Let Go of the Illusion of "Control”

You can't control everything in life. Accepting this fact can free you from unnecessary thought cycles.

Result:

Overthinking is a habit that consumes our mental energy and reduces our quality of life. Dealing with this requires awareness and practice. By accepting the uncertainty of life, you can live with a freer and more peaceful mind.