How to Stop Overthinking (Especially When It Comes to Overthinking About Conversations) – Have you ever found yourself lying awake in bed thinking over and over about a particular situation that happened or you fear might happen? Or maybe you had a tough conversation, or you know you need to have a tough conversation, and you can’t stop thinking about the worst possible outcome.
Overthinking is a common issue that can have a negative impact on our lives. It can lead to anxiety, stress, and difficulty making decisions. It can also make it difficult to have conversations with people, especially if we are worried about what they will think of us or what we are going to say.
As a Master NLP Practitioner, I want to share NLP strategies that can be used to help you stop overthinking. NLP, or neuro-linguistic programming, is a mental technology of techniques that can be used to change our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Becoming Aware
One of the most important strategies for stopping overthinking is to become aware of our thought patterns. Once we are aware of our thought patterns, we can start to challenge them and ask ourselves if they are really helpful or even true.
For example, if you find yourself thinking something like, “I’m going to say something stupid,” ask yourself if there is any evidence to support that thought. Is there any reason why you would be more likely to say something stupid than anyone else? If not, then it is likely that your thought is simply a limiting belief that is holding you back.
Focusing on NOW (the present moment)
Overthinking often draws us into the past or propels us into the future, feeding on worries about what has already happened or what might occur. Mindfulness, a practice that involves paying non-judgmental attention to the present moment, can help. One mindfulness technique is to focus on your breath. Find a comfortable spot, close your eyes, and simply pay attention to the sensation of your breath entering and leaving your body. When your mind wanders (which it inevitably will), gently steer your focus back to your breath, free from self-judgment.
Harnessing the Power of Visualization
Visualizing successful conversations can be a game-changer. In other words, visualize what can possibly go right. Close your eyes and imagine a conversation going really well. Envision yourself speaking confidently and assertively while the other person listens attentively and responds positively. Feel the rush of confidence and accomplishment at the end of this successful exchange. Consistently practicing this visualization exercise can reprogram your mind and nervous system, boosting your confidence and reducing anxiety.
Here are some specific strategies that you can use to stop overthinking conversations:
– Identify your limiting beliefs. What are the thoughts that you have about yourself and your abilities that hold you back from having successful conversations? Once you are aware of your limiting beliefs, you can start to challenge them and ask yourself if they are really true.
– Reframe your thoughts. Instead of thinking negative thoughts about yourself and the conversation, try to reframe your thoughts in a more positive light. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m going to say something stupid,” tell yourself, “I’m going to be myself and let the conversation flow naturally.”
– Focus on the other person. Instead of worrying about what you are going to say, focus on the other person and what they are saying. Ask questions and listen attentively to their answers. This will help you to stay engaged in the conversation and take your mind off of yourself.
– Visualize a successful conversation. Before you have a conversation, take a few minutes to visualize yourself having a successful conversation. See yourself speaking confidently and assertively, and see the other person listening attentively and responding positively. This will help you to build your confidence and reduce your anxiety.
A study titled “The Impact of NLP on Reducing Overthinking,” published in the journal “Frontiers in Psychology” demonstrated that NLP treatment helps individuals gain better control over their thoughts and emotions, reducing ruminative thinking.
Another study titled “NLP as an Effective Treatment for Social Anxiety,” published in the journal “Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy,” found that NLP treatment effectively reduced social anxiety symptoms.
If you are struggling to stop overthinking and you want tools and coping skills to help you take your communication and mindset to the next level, let’s work together one-on-one.
