There are problems that cannot be solved at a certain time and the best decision is to wait. However, sometimes putting these problems on standby is not an easy task.
Last update: January 02, 2022
When faced with a problem or a concern, it is inevitable to think about it in order to find a solution. However, sometimes we tend to over-analyze what happened and, contrary to what we may believe, this is neither beneficial to the problem nor to our well-being. For this we must learn to dedicate the necessary time to it, like this how to learn to stop analyzing problems too much which at the moment we cannot solve.
If this does not happen, it can fall into what is called analysis paralysis syndrome. This phenomenon occurs when, after having analyzed a situation for a long time without acting, one also gets stuck in other fields or initiatives.
This blockage can cause a loss of motivation and concentration, increased fear, decreased self-esteem and delay in achieving the goal.
To avoid getting to this point and stop analyzing too much, we present a set of guidelines that will help manage repetitive thoughts.
How to stop analyzing too much?
One of the main steps is to understand why we tend to over-analyze situations. There can be several causes. On one side, it can be the fear of failing or making mistakes. That emotion leads us to imagine dangerous scenarios for our emotional balance.
“What if something goes wrong? What if I regret it? What if the others suffer? ”. Fear will disappear after taking action and only with experience can we respond and learn from it.
It can also happen that you think for a long time on a question in an inexhaustible and sterile search for perfection. Wanting to do things right is entirely positive and legitimate.
However, perfectionism can cause us to fall into a loop, which also makes us feel more insecure about what we're doing and tolerate failure less.
In addition to analyzing the possible causes, another fundamental step is to be aware that, when we think, we process information through mental filters that distort perception.
Some simple exercises to clear your mind and counter the patterns that do not allow you to see clearly are ideal to stop analyzing too much.
1. Stop thinking
When we feel exhausted because we have lingered on thoughts for a long time, we opt for this strategy. It simply consists of saying "enough!". So let's establish a password for when we realize we have thought too much.
We accompany this inner discourse with an activity that will distract us. For example, a walk, call a friend and talk about something else, listen to some music.
2. Time to think
If you tend to obsess about problems, but not limited to, you can set a schedule. Setting times to think can prevent worries from contaminating everything.
For example, you can spend half an hour each afternoon thinking and analyzing, putting off thoughts that appear at another time.
This limited time will help you rest your mind during the day and see everything more clearly when the time comes. It is important that time to think does not coincide with feelings such as anxiety, sadness or anger.
3. Talk to someone to stop analyzing problems too much
Talking to someone else about your concerns can be very helpful. It will serve as an outlet and will be useful to receive the advice and opinion of someone unrelated to the problem. That person will think more clearly and objectively about the matter, plus they will be willing to listen.
However, we shouldn't let the other do all the reasoning, as well as we cannot expect him to decide for us.
Although he is happy to hear from us, he cannot decide for us. It is therefore advisable not to abuse this strategy and to use it only when you need real support.
Recover spontaneity and decision-making skills
You have to be spontaneous and decide for your life. If you have a tendency to overanalyze, better allow yourself the opportunity to savor the pleasure of improvising, let things flow and make decisions.
No matter how analyzed, decisions are generally made more on the basis of emotions, making it less likely that we will regret it later.
Stopping analyzing too much creates a positive circle in which deciding will be easier and less burdensome; that is increases self-confidence and decision-making ability in the future. Overthinking only clouds the mind, so let's start adopting the right strategies to free ourselves from unnecessary burden.
