Overthinking used to run my life and still can take over at times.
I'd delay decisions too long, analyze every possible outcome, and convince myself I was just "being responsible, or diligent."
But in reality, I was stalling.
While I've learned a lot about why I overthink and how to break the cycle, I must admit that some lessons are still a work in progress.
Here's what I know to be true, even when it's hard to implement.
1. Control is an Illusion
I thought I could guarantee a good outcome if I planned, analyzed, and prepared enough. I believed overthinking was protecting me. But it wasn't—it was just keeping me stuck.
Life is unpredictable, and no amount of thinking will change that.
The best I can do is take action, adapt, and trust that I'll figure it out along the way.
2. Perfectionism is Fear in Disguise
For years, I convinced myself I wasn't overthinking—I was just a perfectionist. But I've understood that perfectionism is fear pretending to be ambition.
I wasn't waiting to "get it right." I was just scared to get it wrong.
I remind myself that done is always better than perfect. Perfection is an illusion; progress is real.
3. Other People's Opinions Are Not My Responsibility
I've wasted so much time overthinking because I was worried about how people would perceive me. Would they think I was too much? Not enough? Would they judge my choices?
The truth is, people will think whatever they want—and I have zero control over that. Realizing that their opinions are not my responsibility has been a liberating revelation. My only job is to live in a way that feels true to my values.
Easier said than done. But I'm working on it.
4. Thinking About Something Isn't the Same as Doing It
Overthinking feels productive.
It tricks you into believing you're "working on" something. But thinking about a workout isn't the same as working out, and thinking about a business isn't the same as building one.
I have to remind myself constantly that thinking is not action. Action is action.
5. More Information Doesn't Always Help
I've fallen into the information trap so many times. I tell myself I need to do "just a little more research" before I decide.
But more information often leads to more paralysis, not more clarity.
Most of the time, I already know what I need to do. I just need to stop looking for an excuse to delay it.
6. Self-Doubt Won't Magically Disappear—Action Kills It
I have been thinking about this a lot lately, as I have struggled with my confidence.
It's a common misconception that we must feel confident before acting.
However, confidence often comes from taking action, even when we're filled with self-doubt.
The first time I did anything that scared me—speaking in public, leading a retreat, launching a new idea—I didn't feel ready. I still don't, half the time.
But I've learned that self-doubt shrinks when you move forward anyway.
7. No One Cares About My Mistakes as Much as I Do
I've spent so much time overthinking past mistakes, replaying conversations, and wondering how I could have done something differently. But here's the truth: no one else is thinking about it.
People are too busy thinking about their lives to obsess over mine.
This realization has freed me from so much unnecessary stress.
8. Indecision Is Exhausting
Overthinking doesn't just waste time—it drains my energy. Every time I spiral into indecision, I feel mentally exhausted before I've even done anything.
When I get stuck, I ask, "Is this actually helping me, or just tiring me out?"
I've found that making a decision and moving forward is a powerful way to conserve my mental energy.
That usually snaps me out of it.
9. I Can Handle Uncertainty
Overthinking is often just a fear of not knowing. Not knowing the outcome, not knowing if something will work, not knowing what will happen next.
But I've realized I don't need certainty to move forward.
The worst-case scenario is rarely as bad as my brain makes it out to be—and even if things go sideways, I'll figure it out, just like I always have.
This realization has empowered me to handle uncertainty with confidence.
10. The Longer I Wait, the Harder It Gets
The longer I overthink, the bigger the decision feels. A simple email becomes a huge deal, and a small project becomes overwhelming.
I've learned that speed kills doubt. If I move quickly, I don't give my brain time to talk me out of it. Momentum is everything.
What I Keep Reminding Myself
Overthinking isn't about intelligence. It's not about being responsible. It's just a habit of fear.
And like any habit, it can be broken.
✅ The only way to get clarity is through action.
✅ The only way to stop overthinking is to decide.
✅ The only way to move forward is to move.
Still working on it. But I'm getting better every day.
🔥 Your Turn:
Which of these lessons resonates with you? Please comment—I'd love to hear.
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PS. I have a free ebook coming out this week to provide action steps on 'How to Stop Overthinking and Get Sh*t Done'.
It is 10 short chapters, blending bold execution tactics with mindfulness-based productivity strategies.
If you want an early copy, email me at williamsjodya@gmail, and I will send you a copy very soon.
Much love and peace,
Jody
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