What Overthinking Looks Like

Overthinking can have a significant impact on your mental wellbeing. Recognizing what overthinking looks like is the first step towards managing and overcoming it. In this article, we will explore real-world examples of what overthinking looks like so you can identify it.

Replaying Past Conversations:

Ugh, why did I say that, they probably think I’m conceited?
I hope I didn’t offend anyone.
What did they mean when they said [insert something someone said]?

Overthinking often looks like the constant replay of past conversations in your mind. You may analyze every word you said, wondering if you said the right things or if others interpreted your words differently. For instance, recalling a job interview and obsessing over your responses long after it’s over.

Creating What if Scenarios:

What if I insult someone at the dinner party and ruin the mood?
What if I spill wine on the carpet at the gala tonight?
What if I trip on stage during the performance and become a joke?

Another sign of overthinking is the habit of creating elaborate scenarios about the future, most of which are unlikely or even irrational. For instance, worrying excessively about a presentation that is weeks away and envisioning catastrophic outcomes that are highly improbable.

Second-Guessing Decisions:

Should I have worn something different?
What if something better comes along?
Am I going to regret this?

Overthinkers often struggle with decision-making, constantly second-guessing themselves. Simple choices become a source of stress as they weigh the potential outcomes. For example, spending an excessive amount of time deciding what to wear or what to order at a restaurant.

Catastrophizing Minor Issues:

I tripped over my words in the meeting, my team thinks I’m incompetent.
I failed a math test, my entire academic career is meaningless.
They definitely saw me pick a wedgie and are judging me now.

Overthinking magnifies minor issues into major problems. A minor mistake at work, like a typo in an email, can become a catastrophe in the mind of an overthinker. This tendency to catastrophize can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety.

Fear of Judgment:

I need to buy a Stanley mug or people won’t like me.
Better hide my D&D dice so people don’t see and make fun of me.
I want to raise my hand but everyone will laugh at what I have to say.

Overthinkers often worry excessively about what others think of them. This fear of judgment can manifest in various ways, such as hesitating to express opinions in a group setting or constantly seeking reassurance from others about their actions.

Sleep Disturbances:

I need to get up in 5 hours but I can’t turn my thoughts off.
Ugh, why was I so awkward in high school.
I wonder if Jon heard me fart in the meeting last week.

Overthinking can also take a toll on sleep. People who overthink may find it difficult to quiet their minds, leading to insomnia or restless nights. This can create a cycle of fatigue and increased overthinking the next day.

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Everyone overthinks sometimes, but if mental noise is getting you stuck it is time to develop strategies to stop it. Understanding what overthinking looks like is the first step. Once you identify where you overthink, you can take steps to break the thought loops.