As an introvert, it is completely normal to have countless thoughts that are never expressed outwardly. Overthinking is normalized in a fast paced society. Contrary to popular belief, introverts are not always shy (although they can appear to be and even seem disconnected occasionally). The main difference between extroverts and introverts is the energy they seek to surround themselves with. Extroverts usually look for energetic and arousing environments like parties, loud public places, and concerts or festivals. On the other hand, introverts typically are more comfortable with less external energy and arousal. These can include small gathering of close friends, reading a book in a comfortable spot, or spending time by themselves doing whatever brings them fulfillment at the time being.
Extroverts usually express a larger majority of their thoughts than their mislabeled counterparts. Being an introvert does not always mean someone is disengaged or withdrawn. Introverts spend more time thinking and keeping those thoughts to themselves, which can lead to an overthinking fiasco. Once someone goes down a rabbit hole of overwhelming themselves, they are often the only ones who can get them out of the self-made ditch.
Overwhelmed yet Calm
When someone overthinks, they do not always show telling signs of doing so. They may look slightly irritated or annoyed but not overly anxious or panicky. Thinking is most beneficial when a happy medium is reached. Too little does not lead to enough meaningful interactions and ideas; too much leads to anxious feelings and overall downward spiraling thought processes.
Composure is keeping one’s calm and even-keeled appearance even when they might be falling apart on the inside. Introverts do a better job of hiding and/or masking their emotions than extroverts. They think it is necessary to appear calm 24/7. However, it is okay to be overwhelmed as it is a natural feeling that can be caused by countless factors.
In Your Head
Overthinking typically occurs when someone spends more time in their head than the present moment. Time is extremely valuable no matter how we choose to spend it. Once it is gone, it cannot be replenished like other intangible aspects of life like health, money, and pleasure. People seek to gain and gain endlessly but rarely stop to realize this attitude may lead to adverse situations in the long run. In your head means overthinking to a degree without being physically, emotionally, or mentally present.
It is easier for introverts to get in their heads. They tend to express themselves in different ways than extroverts. Between the two, thought processes often separate the groups in a drastic way. On one hand, extroverts think more outwardly and express themselves more openly. In contrary, introverts typically think inwardly and “get in their own head.” Nobody can help someone get out of their own head except the person who did so in the first place. Thoughts can become sticky and overwhelming, but can be avoided using various healthy thought processes and approaches.
Kill Overthinking
The root of all overthinking lies in one’s internal world. Nothing in the external world can directly lead someone to start thinking in a downward spiral. Destructive thought processes come up; they are not permanent, which can be extremely difficult in the midst of a personal dilemma. Objectivity is not always easy to achieve.
An effective way to curb overthinking to distract oneself with a healthy outlet. Reading, working out, playing sports, talking to a friend (about positive topics), and spending time in nature are all viable options to get the mind out of an undesirable thought process. Although it may not completely eliminate overthinking, distraction works well in tandem with other techniques to cease overanalyzing certain situations.
Another method effective against overthinking is allowing the mind to rest. A healthy mind is constantly racing all day about anything and everything; thousands of thoughts come and go everyday. Sometimes the mind needs a break, just like the rest of the human body. Rest looks different for everyone. Too much and too little are both detrimental. It is essential to listen to the body and mind together; both show signs of health and the times in need of rest.
Thinking leads to endless possibilities. Even a healthy mind is not perfect; overthinking is natural especially for introverts. People should act like they are human instead of trying to be a perfectionist.
