Overthinking

It Can Lead You To Presence

You Are Not Your Thoughts

I used to hate overthinking because it felt overwhelming. My mind never got a break, and I struggled to be present in the simple things in life. I only truly felt those moments when I noticed a beautiful sunset, sat in the park listening to the birds chirping, or cuddled my niece or nephews.

I found myself lost—not in my career or friendships, but at a point in my life where I didn’t understand what I was doing or what I truly wanted. Then it clicked. Everything changed when my brother recommended a book that opened the door for me to other self-help and spirituality materials. The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle was the catalyst. I was ready to realise that life is about more than big moments like parties, travel, or grand experiences. It all boils down to how we feel in our bodies. Are we connected to our bodies or lost in our minds?

I became obsessed with Eckhart and his teachings, especially when he stated, “Instead of asking what do I want from life, a more powerful question is, what does life want from me?”

It was at this point that I understood the importance of practising presence. It’s not about stopping my thoughts; rather, it’s about observing them. I am not my thoughts; they do not define me.

Serving Life

What a game changer this has been. It has profoundly influenced my life. I continue to strengthen my practice of being present through meditation and by pausing before speaking or making decisions. I feel as though it’s a long journey; I have made progress, but perhaps this is an ongoing process. I’ve come to terms with the fact that whenever I think I’ve reached my destination, I’ll find another layer to uncover and another level to ascend to.

What’s most important is that I stop demanding what I want from life and recognise that I am here to serve life. Therefore, I must continue to be kind, observe my thoughts, and practise presence.

I have achieved so much, including forming beautiful friendships, travelling the world, and building a successful career. Yet, there remains much more that I have no idea when I will accomplish. I also know that overthinking can manifest negative energy. So, I am trying to enjoy my life for what it is in this phase and in every moment. I firmly believe that you can attract what is meant for you if you believe it to your core. Sometimes, overcoming our fears through reflection and taking small steps is what we need to focus on before we notice the bigger outcome.

Conquering Overthinking: Tools and Techniques

1. Remember, you are not your thoughts. Allow those thoughts to come and go without clinging to them.

2. Learn grounding skills. Techniques like breathwork can help regulate your nervous system when you're feeling overwhelmed.

3. When you feel frustrated or angry, remember we are here to serve life. It’s a blessing to make a positive difference, no matter how small. Smile at a stranger, thank your colleague, or spend quality time with loved ones.

4. Don’t let worry consume you. Set a time limit for worrying. Allow yourself to feel concerned for 10 minutes in the day, then refocus on being present rather than being trapped in your thoughts.

5. Practice gratitude. Writing daily in a gratitude journal is a habit I picked up in 2021, and I haven't looked back. These small practices help you notice more positive moments in your day and feel less frustrated.

6. Be creative. Immerse yourself in an activity that allows self-expression, whether it's painting, sports, or gardening. Find an outlet to release some stress.

7. Connect with your body. Engaging in yoga, deep stretching, or meditation helps ground you in the present. These activities encourage slowing down and being aware of your bodily sensations.

8. Reach out to a loved one. Sometimes, just saying things out loud can help you let go of what's weighing you down.

A Final Thought

Overthinking is something I once believed was the worst thing that could happen to me. I found myself resisting it at first, then trying to justify it as healthy when I didn’t know how to manage it. However, I’ve come to realise that it’s important to accept overthinking for what it is.

In reality, all I needed was to learn how to manage it effectively. Thinking is essential; we need to use our minds to solve problems. Yet, we don’t need to worry about the future or dwell on the past to the point that it prevents us from living in the present moment.

This is a lesson we aren’t taught enough by our caregivers or in schools. It’s something we would all benefit from, leading to a life filled with more inner peace.

I hope you enjoyed reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Until our next moment,

Marwah Ali