overthinking
3 steps against everyday brooding
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head cinema? loop? mind carousel? Then you are probably in the overthinking trap. Psychologist Miriam Jung has tips on how to get out of it.
Ponder, brood and brood some more. Each of us knows that feeling when our thoughts go one round after the next and somehow keep missing the exit from the roundabout. We think about contingencies that lie in the future. We ask ourselves one “what if” question after the next and in the end come to no conclusion because unfortunately (or fortunately) nobody has a crystal ball at home. That takes a lot of strength and energy that we can really use for other things right now. It is therefore all the more important that we get out of the thought spirals. Psychologist Miriam Jung reveals what helps on her Instagram channel and in her book.
It all comes down to our micro habits
If you want to know what you can still achieve with very small changes, Miriam Junge has her book “Small steps with a big effect” at Kösel Verlag. Available for €16.
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Micro habits are behaviors that seem small and insignificant to us, but in fact have a huge impact on our lives and well-being.
“A micro habit is the smallest, simplest step you can take in the here and now that will bring you one percent closer to your goal.”
Because they are so small, you can easily implement them in everyday life. One example would be taking the stairs instead of the elevator, another would be skipping the sugar in coffee. The good thing about them is that we can adapt them at any time and start changing them at any time.
Stop worrying about everyday life with these three micro habits
1. Watch your thoughts
The first step out of the rumination trap is to even notice you’re in it. So watch yourself and be mindful of your thoughts.
2. Question negative thoughts
Are you picturing your future in the grayest of all shades of gray again? Do you always assume the worst? Then try to consciously question why you rate certain situations so negatively. Also ask yourself if these negative thoughts are justified and if they are realistic at all.
3. Stop brooding
When thoughts start circling in your head again, interrupt them by mentally saying “Stop!” say. Try diverting your attention to something else. Think about what would do you good in this very moment. Maybe you are thirsty, hungry or need some exercise. Even small changes get you out of your vortex of thoughts.