Five Signs That You Are Overthinking

Overthinking. What comes to your mind when you hear the word? Do you believe that overthinking gives you the time and space to really debate your options, think about your next moves, and take future steps accordingly? If so, it could be time to change mindsets. 

Overthinking is a dangerous path to exist in, as it can disguise itself as productivity. We might think that overthinking allows us to check all our boxes before moving forward, but in reality, no progress is being made. Overthinking could be hindering you from making your next life-changing business decision or purchase. 

It’s time to see if you are stuck in the cycle of overthinking. 

1. You are Falling Into Decision Paralysis 

It is extremely beneficial to weigh the pros and cons of any decision you make, but this should be done with a timeline of execution in mind. If overthinking comes into play, you might fall into decision paralysis, leading you to overanalyze every option and potential outcome and not actually make any choices at the end of the day. Decision paralysis can completely stop you from moving forward with your goals. 

To beat this, set a timer for yourself. If you have a decision to make, set a timer for a specific time and give yourself that long to truly think and come to a conclusion. It might seem fast, but it can be the push you need to stop overthinking. 

2. There is No Delegation Happening 

Overthinking can cause leaders to hoard responsibilities. If you are overly focused on every potential outcome, whether good or bad, your need to control those outcomes will increase, leading you to lose the ability to delegate responsibility and tasks to your partners and team. Overthinking can place too much on your shoulders, causing you to lose sight of the big picture as you focus on every little detail. Not delegating could also hinder the growth of your team as a whole. 

Start with a small task to delegate to someone else. It doesn’t have to be life-changing, but something to get the ball rolling and start getting tasks off your shoulders. Communicate clearly and let go of the task. 

3. You Are Hovering 

Let’s say you are delegating, amazing! However, have you really taken a step back? Overthinking can cause you to hover and micromanage your teams and partners, as you become anxious about outcomes and processes. This is still you actively trying to control every detail. Micromanaging will lead to more harm than good, causing those around you to feel less valued or question their abilities. 

It could be time to take a walk. Whether you are physically hovering in an office or spamming emails to team members and partners for updates, it could be time to step back and let the people you trust work. Take a walk, work on a you-specific task, or talk with a partner about why you might be anxious about letting go. 

4. You’re Waiting For the “Right” Time

There is never a “right” time. There may be the “best” time, but you can not close yourself off to making decisions, asking questions, or taking first steps because you don’t think the timing is right. Leadership and business don’t wait for the perfect time. If you keep putting things off because they feel off, it's likely due to overthinking. 

It is time to take that first step. It could be small. It could be as small as sending an initial email. Whatever it might be, it is the cure to waiting for the “right” time. 

5. Your Focus Is on the Past, Not the Future

If you are constantly reliving old conversations, dwelling on past mistakes, or regretting past decisions, you are not moving forward; you are overthinking the past. Focusing on the past will not set you up for a successful future. Yes, we must remember the past in order not to repeat it, but we should not be spiraling within it and letting it fester. We must learn from it and move forward. 

Now, it is time to think, “What did that teach me?” and “What comes after that?” We can’t dwell on the past. To nip it in the bud, we must take the learning lessons and move on. 

Overthinking can lead us into a dangerous cycle of complacency and stagnation. If you want to continue your success and grow, it’s time to put the overthinking behind you. If you have further questions or would like to learn how to become a stronger leader and business professional, please send me a message or contact me at Anthony Clervi.