Stop Overthinking: 23 Techniques to Relieve Stress, Stop Negative Spirals, Declutter Your Mind, and Focus on the Present (The Path to Calm Book 1)

the opposite action technique enables us to identify the emotional core behind these thoughts so we can try out an alternative that feels better. The general process is:

We see confidence and relaxation. We approach new situations with interest and aren’t afraid to try new things or take a risk. We trust others because deep down, we trust ourselves and know that we are equal to the trials life throws our way and that we can handle them. Sometimes we feel scared, but we allow challenge to motivate and inspire us. Ou

The emotion behind much overthinking is fear—fear of being out of control, of being overwhelmed, of failure, of impending danger, of panic, and so on. The feeling is valid. But that doesn’t mean it’s true. It certainly doesn’t mean it’s helpful! And if we act out of fear, we often only end up creating more fear anyway. But we have the option to obs

True needs are often felt simply and directly, whereas those decisions and desires we notice ourselves endlessly justifying and explaining are usually not genuine needs.

The Nonviolent Communication model proposed by Marshall Rosenberg is about improving empathy, connection, and understanding in relationships. One principle is to focus on needs in social interactions. Take the stress and coercion out of communication by clearly sharing your own needs and listening for the needs of others.

Attitude 5: Focus on what you need, not what you want

Focusing on needs also allows you to be more resilient with changes, challenges, or disappointments that aren’t great but aren’t the end of the world. If we can understand that something is just a want and not a need, it’s easier to let go and move on when we don’t get it.

Pull your awareness to what is going on right now, and you narrow the scope for overthinking. You also put your thoughts on the one place where they have the best chance of actually helping you.

Attitude 4: Focus on the present, not the past or the future