While increased choice allows us to achieve objectively better results, it also leads to greater anxiety, indecision and paralysis.
–  Psychologist Barry Schwartz; Ted Talk

I was struggling to write this article. I kept switching topics, researching, and brainstorming, but nothing seemed to work. Ultimately, I realized I was stuck in analysis paralysis, which resulted from too much overthinking.

We all overthink sometimes. In fact, thanks to Google, we can endlessly research every decision, which ironically makes it harder to actually choose. This sort of over-thinking can lead to bad choices or no choice at all.

Recognizing the Signs

Here are 8 signs you overthink:

1. Second-guessing: Constantly checking if the stove is off or the door is locked?  Essentially, uncertainty can make us panic. To counter this, seek information to fill knowledge gaps and build confidence. Avoid overthinking these small details.
2. Taking things personally: Not every comment is about you. However, if you feel offended, first find some peace, perhaps get a second opinion, and then ask for clarification if needed without overthinking the comment.
3. Perfectionism: Needing everything to be “perfect” can isolate you.  Instead, seek support from others and embrace imperfection to prevent overthinking each detail.
4. Fear of the unknown: Worrying about the future? If so, talk to someone you trust, possibly a professional to avoid overthinking.
5. Worst-case scenarios: Life is unpredictable. Furthermore, studies show most of what we fear never happens, so avoiding overthinking can help. Therefore, focus on the present and keep a journal to ease your mind.
6. Not present: You can’t predict the future, but you can control your present actions avoid overthinking. With this in mind, focus on today. A visual reminder, like a ribbon on your wrist, can help.
7. Blowing things out of proportion: Get the facts and gain perspective and avoid overthinking these situations. Moreover, ask yourself, “Will this matter tomorrow?”
8. Taking “no” personally: “No” isn’t always about you.  Instead, try to understand the reasons behind it without overthinking the refusal.

The Dangers of Overthinking

Unless you’ve figured out a way to shut off your brain (and still be alive of course) – your brain’s natural hardwiring for analyzing data will continue. The real question is, “how much data and for how long?” Obsessive patterns like non-stop analyzing can potentially lead to more problems such as a lack of creativity, willpower or worse, depression and anxiety disorders. Overthinking can amplify these issues. Here’s a great article on how to shift this behavior starting today. If you liked my article, please share it amongst your network and by all means, don’t over analyze my request 🙂

The floor is yours:
What else are common causes of  analysis paralysis?

Please leave your comment below as your insights are greatly appreciated and a learning opportunity for everyone reading this article. Avoid overthinking and share your thoughts.

With leadership,
Joshua
www.JoshHMiller

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