Overthinking can become an obstacle to success.
It can also become a habit.
A habit that might be holding you back from making sound and productive decisions.
You have probably heard the saying “When you’re in a problem, all you see is the problem”.
This Albert Einstein quote sums it up. “We cannot solve problems with the same thinking we used to create them” He understood problem-solving.
Take a moment and consider those words. “ …. the same thinking we used to create them”. Part of the issue here is that we don’t accept responsibility for our role in the creation or extension of our problems. We don’t take ownership and this can block our ability to resolve the issue.
That is often when the ‘overthinking’ comes into it. We try to justify why we have chosen a certain path towards our desired outcome.
How often have you indulged yourself in overthinking a project or even a simple task? We start on the path of procrastination. Many of us choose to participate in this time-wasting and frustrating behaviour without even consciously realising it.
Why is it that we second-guess ourselves?
Is it a need for perfectionism? Judgement around our results? Concern for what other people think? Possibly all these things, but that uncertainty can really hold you back and stop the creative flow. Some amazing ideas and results have come from people making a start.
I would like you to consider each time you procrastinate about making that final decision or taking that step forward. Consider what you and others may be missing out on. Let go of thinking that the time needs to be right, or you have to be certain that every detail is perfect.
As part of their preparation for coaching, I ask clients to complete a form with a range of questions designed to help them with clarity around their challenges. I ask them to put down the first response that comes to mind. It’s not a test. Resist the temptation to overanalyse (analysis paralysis) and overthink the answers. Trust your subconscious to deliver the answer that is right for you. The results are often surprising and enlightening.
Some of the most amazing inventions and breakthroughs humanity has achieved have been through taking that first step. Experimenting. Making a start.
Certainly, do your preparation, and your research and put in the work needed but then move on it. Make it happen.
It’s like stepping out of a maze and exploring the wider world. The possibilities. The potential. Enjoy the results. What’s stopping you?
