One of the common themes among my clients is this statement: I’m an over thinker.
It’s usually said with a tinge of self-loathing, as if overthinking was a shameful habit.
Since my philosophy revolves around self-love and self-care, a question I always ask is “What are the gifts of being an over thinker?” It shifts their thoughts from self-loathing to a sense of wonder at themselves.
However, while overthinking has its gifts, I admit that I have a bias for action. There’s only so much you can do with thinking about the different scenarios (including worst-case ones which probably will never really happen), creating pros-and-cons lists and listening to loud inner-critic musings.
When you take action, you can see that the worst-case scenario you’ve built up in your brain might not actually become a reality.
When you take action, you can see the results and course-correct if necessary.
Taking action exercises the following muscles: courage and resilience. These muscles will be necessary as you continue to follow your dream. Using them now will help you face all the moments of discomfort that will follow.
When you take action, you are signaling to the universe that you are making a commitment to this path, even if you don’t know yet where it will lead.
Taking action means you don’t live with regrets. You have a vision for your life and you take the steps necessary to get there.
So stop shaming yourself for being an over thinker and start taking action on your dream. You have one life. Live it according to your truth, your dreams and your commitment to both.
