Choose your thought challenge—as we proceed to put a stop to that overwhelming and all-encompassing issue of “overthinking” …
Unfortunately, our thoughts are, many times, stuck in the pattern that has been with us since primitive ages wherein actual disasters were more eminent and present. Put another way, when humans lived in the hunter/gatherer period, we were not able to predict the dangers that were lurking around the corner. Overtime, with the advent of technology and other related growth, our imminent threat burdens have markedly decreased; yet, our minds are still programmed (more so for some people as compared with others) to overthink and anticipate danger.
The more primitive part of our brain, which is the amygdala, is the culprit for this! We, however, have the power, as human beings, to a control our thoughts to some degree by utilizing our frontal lobe. The challenge for the next few days will be to first assess:
Is this thought, this overwhelming “what if” thought, worth my time or paying favorable lease terms for occupying the real estate in my brain?
If the answer is YES, then proceed to 2(a); if the answer is NO then proceed to 2(b)
a. This thought enhances my quality of life by......
b. Pick a chant, mantra or even proverb that gives you a positive vibe and repeat it for 3 minutes straight e.g. I will not get this moment again, I will focus on something I am grateful for; say the serenity prayer; I calm my thoughts to create peace instead of thinking; I will now cleanse my brain with positivity like I cleanse my body with a bath.
3. Most of us like to help other people when they have a problem. We usually can come up with positive, alternate views and provide good advice to them. But if you are able to do this for someone else, why can you not do it for yourself? If you have a hard time letting go of a thought then try to write it down as though you are speaking to a friend and respond the way you would have if you were on the other side.
