How do I stop overthinking?

You won't stop.

Overthinking is our body's natural reaction to a sense of threat. When we're afraid or unsure, we try to think everything through down to the smallest detail. That makes it easier for us to cope with the feeling of uncertainty.

We freeze: we put off taking action and get stuck in our own thoughts.

Anxious thoughts keep us in a kind of comfort zone: in it, you can worry, but you don't have to change anything or face failure.

By thinking through every detail of a decision, we're simply trying to avoid taking action.

To break out of the anxiety loop, accept that these thoughts will always be there. Our brain may predict worst-case scenarios, and it will most likely be wrong.

You shouldn't always trust all of your thoughts or give up your wishes and dreams because of anxiety.

I'm stuck in an unpleasant overthinking loop right now. What should I do?

• Take a few deep breaths
• Notice how your brain is trying to talk you out of something new
• Act despite the fear

Our mind doesn't always know what's best for us. Its job is to protect us, but we are the ones who decide what to do in order to live a full life.

We all tend to overthink

Be aware of your fears, but don't let them stop you

Only by taking action do we change our lives for the better