A Psychologist Teaches You How To Tame Your ‘Overthinking’
A surprising new method has been discovered to help individuals transition from unhelpful rumination to relaxed and positive thinking. Many people seek therapy to address their tendency to overthink, expressing a desire to find ways to relax and quiet their minds. Over-analysis can be mentally draining, and individuals often turn to distractions to avoid solitary reflection. However, these distractions may only provide temporary relief and can lead to more anxiety and stress.
Fortunately, research suggests that our minds have the potential to control our thoughts more than we realize. Daydreaming, often seen as a distraction or escape, can actually play a valuable role in our overall well-being. Nearly half of our waking hours are spent daydreaming, and intentionally directing our daydreams can help in managing overthinking.
A recent study on intentional daydreaming discovered that for daydreaming to be pleasurable, individuals should focus on meaningful and positive topics. By being mindful of the thoughts that shape our daydreams, we can use this practice as an antidote to overanalysis. Intentional daydreaming involves creating and maintaining focus on positive imagined scenarios. This process can be made more enjoyable by pre-planning topics to think about. In fact, research shows that thinking for pleasure can be as enjoyable as playing a video game.
Psychologist and daydreaming researcher Erin Westgate emphasizes the importance of selecting topics that are personally rewarding for daydreaming. These topics can include pleasant memories, future accomplishments, or exciting upcoming events. It’s essential to choose the right time for intentional daydreaming, avoiding it during important tasks or when distracted or tired. Engaging in intentional daydreaming is most effective when we have the cognitive resources to go inward, such as when performing low-demand mental activities like waiting for the bus or doing household chores.
Intentional daydreaming is just one approach to redirecting unhelpful thinking patterns. It is equally important to acknowledge negative emotions, challenge negative thoughts, and use techniques like journaling to reframe our thinking. Learning to process our emotions with the help of a professional allows us to avoid being consumed by our worries. Intentional daydreaming acts as a tool to shift our focus when needed and cultivate more positive experiences in our daily lives.
In a world where daydreams are often dismissed as mere distractions, this research highlights their potential as tools for self-improvement and happiness. By nurturing the skill of intentional daydreaming, we can transform our mental landscapes, shift our focus away from negative rumination, cultivate positivity, and embrace the beauty within our own minds.
