How to STOP Overthinking (EASIEST WAY)

Aaron Doughty
25 Jul 201709:32

Summary

TLDRIn this insightful video, Aaron teaches viewers how to overcome overthinking and trust life's natural course. Drawing from personal experience and meditation, he emphasizes the importance of observing thoughts without judgment to reduce anxiety and resistance. By practicing mindfulness and shifting focus from the head to the body, one can achieve a state of presence and let go of limiting self-images. Aaron also highlights the role of the ego in decision-making and the power of trusting one's greater self to manifest desired experiences.

Takeaways

  • 🧘 Overthinking and overanalyzing can be detrimental to one's mental well-being and can be mitigated by learning to trust the natural course of life.
  • 🌟 The speaker, Aaron, emphasizes the power of meditation and observing one's thoughts without judgment as a way to reduce anxiety and negative thinking.
  • 💡 The concept of 'reactive mind' is introduced, suggesting that by creating a space to observe thoughts, one can learn to disidentify with them and let them pass without resistance.
  • 🍃 The importance of finding a 'neutral place' is highlighted, akin to watching the world go by without attachment or judgment, which can help in managing overthinking.
  • 🌱 The script suggests that the more one tries to control thoughts, the more resistance is created, thus advocating for allowing thoughts to exist without trying to suppress or control them.
  • 🔄 The idea of 'neural networks' and 'momentum' of thought is discussed, indicating that identifying with thoughts strengthens certain neural pathways, which can be redirected through observation.
  • 🌌 The speaker shares personal experiences of pain and growth, illustrating the journey from a victim mentality to a state of observation and acceptance.
  • 🌐 The technique of bringing awareness into the body, rather than focusing on thoughts, is presented as a method to overcome overthinking by grounding oneself in physical sensations.
  • 📚 Inspiration from the book 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle is acknowledged, underlining the simplicity and effectiveness of the concepts presented in the video.
  • 🚫 The script encourages letting go of self-labels such as 'overthinker' or 'overanalyzer', and instead identifying with the ability to observe and respond rather than react.
  • 🌈 Trusting in the process of life and one's greater self is presented as a key to overcoming overthinking, suggesting that ego should focus but not control, allowing for a more peaceful existence.

Q & A

  • What is the main purpose of the video by Aaron?

    -The main purpose of the video is to show viewers how to stop overthinking and overanalyzing, and to trust the course of their lives.

  • How does Aaron describe his past experience with negative thinking?

    -Aaron describes his past experience with negative thinking as being very identified with it, which made him anxious and led him to a point where he had to learn to disidentify with the negative thoughts and events from his past.

  • What role did meditation play in Aaron's life transformation?

    -Meditation played a significant role in Aaron's life transformation by teaching him how to observe his thoughts without trying to control them, which eventually led to a decrease in negative thinking.

  • What is the paradox Aaron mentions regarding controlling thoughts?

    -The paradox Aaron mentions is that the more one tries to control their thoughts, the more resistance is built, and the thoughts become more persistent.

  • How does Aaron suggest observing thoughts to combat overthinking?

    -Aaron suggests observing thoughts from a neutral place, without trying to control or judge them, similar to watching people or a dog pass by in a park without getting involved or attached.

  • What analogy does Aaron use to explain the neutral observation of thoughts?

    -Aaron uses the analogy of sitting on a park bench, observing the surroundings without judgment or attachment, to explain the concept of neutral observation of thoughts.

  • How does Aaron relate the practice of observation to neural networks and momentum?

    -Aaron relates the practice of observation to neural networks and momentum by stating that when we observe our thoughts without giving them momentum, we neutralize the charge and can redirect our focus and energy.

  • What technique does Aaron recommend to shift awareness away from overthinking?

    -Aaron recommends bringing awareness into the body by feeling into the senses and sense perceptions, such as focusing on the hands, chest, or legs, to shift awareness away from overthinking.

  • Which book does Aaron reference as a source of some of the techniques he shares?

    -Aaron references 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle as a source of some of the techniques he shares in the video.

  • What is the significance of letting go of the self-image of being an overthinker according to Aaron?

    -Letting go of the self-image of being an overthinker allows individuals to start identifying with being an observer, which can lead to a decrease in overthinking and an increase in responding rather than reacting.

  • How does Aaron define the role of the ego in relation to overthinking?

    -Aaron defines the role of the ego as a part of ourselves that should focus and decide what it wants, but it should not be the only part controlling everything, as overthinking often arises from the ego trying to control more than its designated role.

  • What is the key takeaway from Aaron's discussion on trusting the course of life?

    -The key takeaway is that by trusting the natural course of life and not overidentifying with our thinking, we can allow things to happen as they are meant to, and our job is to decide what things mean to us and to be present in the moment.

Outlines

00:00

🧘 Overcoming Overthinking Through Mindfulness

In the first paragraph, Aaron introduces the video's theme of overcoming overthinking and overanalyzing by trusting life's course. He shares a personal story of dealing with negative thinking and anxiety, which led him to discover the power of meditation and observation of thoughts. Aaron explains that trying to control thoughts can create resistance, but by observing them neutrally, one can achieve a state of presence and peace. He uses the analogy of sitting on a park bench, observing without judgment, to illustrate the concept of neutral observation. The key takeaway is to allow thoughts to exist without resistance and to practice mindfulness to transform one's relationship with their thoughts.

05:00

🌱 Embracing Presence and Letting Go of Labels

The second paragraph delves into techniques for managing overthinking, emphasizing the importance of awareness and presence. Aaron suggests bringing awareness to physical sensations as a way to disengage from the mind's tendency to overthink. He references 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle, highlighting the simplicity and effectiveness of the book's teachings. Aaron encourages viewers to observe their thoughts without resistance and to let go of self-imposed labels such as 'overthinker.' He discusses the role of the ego and the importance of trusting the natural course of life, suggesting that overthinking can create barriers to achieving goals. The paragraph concludes with the idea that by observing thoughts and trusting the process, one can experience significant personal transformation and live more fully in the present moment.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Overthinking

Overthinking refers to the excessive and repetitive thinking about a situation or problem, often leading to anxiety and indecision. In the video, Aaron discusses how overthinking can be detrimental to one's mental health and personal growth. He uses his own experience to illustrate how focusing too much on controlling thoughts can create resistance and hinder progress. The video emphasizes the importance of observing thoughts without judgment to reduce overthinking.

💡Observation

Observation in this context is the act of noticing and being aware of one's thoughts and feelings without judgment or control. Aaron explains that by simply observing thoughts, rather than trying to control them, one can reduce the resistance and allow thoughts to flow more naturally. This concept is central to the video's message about managing overthinking and achieving a state of mental clarity.

💡Meditation

Meditation is a practice of focusing the mind and achieving a state of mental calmness and clarity. Aaron mentions that he learned to meditate and initially struggled with controlling his thoughts. However, he discovered that by observing his thoughts without trying to control them, he could achieve a more peaceful state of mind. Meditation is presented as a tool for managing overthinking and fostering a deeper understanding of oneself.

💡Resistance

Resistance in the video refers to the mental and emotional pushback against a situation or thought. Aaron explains that when he tried to control his thoughts, he encountered resistance, which only intensified his overthinking. The video suggests that by observing thoughts without resistance, one can reduce the mental tension and achieve a more balanced state of mind.

💡Presence

Presence is the state of being fully engaged in the current moment, without being distracted by past or future thoughts. Aaron discusses the importance of being present in the moment as a way to overcome overthinking. He suggests that by focusing on the present, one can reduce the tendency to overanalyze and overthink, leading to a more peaceful and focused state of mind.

💡Ego

Ego in this context is the part of the self that is concerned with personal identity and self-image. Aaron explains that the ego can create barriers to personal growth by overanalyzing and overthinking. He suggests that by observing the egoic thoughts and not identifying with them, one can reduce the ego's influence and trust the natural course of life.

💡Trust

Trust in the video is the act of having confidence in one's life and the natural unfolding of events. Aaron emphasizes the importance of trusting the process of life and not relying solely on the ego to control everything. By trusting the course of life, one can reduce overthinking and allow things to happen naturally.

💡Self-Image

Self-image is the mental representation of oneself, including one's beliefs, values, and identity. Aaron discusses how labeling oneself as an overthinker or overanalyzer can reinforce negative behaviors. He suggests that by observing and not identifying with these labels, one can change their self-image and reduce overthinking.

💡Reactive Mind

The reactive mind, as described in the video, is the part of the mind that responds automatically to stimuli without conscious thought. Aaron explains that by observing the reactive mind, one can learn to respond rather than react, leading to a more balanced and thoughtful approach to life.

💡Momentum

Momentum in this context refers to the force or strength of a thought or behavior pattern. Aaron discusses how giving momentum to overthinking by identifying with those thoughts can strengthen the neural circuitry in the brain, making it harder to change. By observing thoughts and neutralizing their momentum, one can redirect their focus and achieve a more balanced state of mind.

💡Awareness

Awareness in the video is the state of being conscious of one's thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. Aaron suggests that by bringing awareness from the head into the body, one can reduce overthinking. He recommends focusing on physical sensations to help shift attention away from intellectual concerns and achieve a more grounded state of being.

Highlights

Aaron introduces a method to stop overthinking and trust the course of life.

The video aims to transform the way viewers think and identify with their thoughts.

Aaron shares his personal backstory of overcoming negative thinking and anxiety.

He explains the two potential paths after experiencing pain: victim mentality or learning to disidentify with past events.

Aaron learned meditation and initially focused on controlling his thoughts, which led to resistance.

He discovered that simply observing thoughts without control leads to their natural dissipation.

Aaron uses the analogy of sitting on a park bench to illustrate the concept of observing thoughts neutrally.

He emphasizes the importance of not identifying with thoughts or labels.

Aaron explains how giving momentum to thoughts strengthens neural circuitry in the brain.

Observing thoughts neutralizes their momentum, allowing for redirection towards desired outcomes.

He suggests using physical awareness, such as feeling in the body, to counteract overthinking.

Aaron references the book 'The Power of Now' by Eckhart Tolle for its simple yet powerful techniques.

He advises against overidentifying with the label of being an overthinker or overanalyzer.

Aaron discusses the difference between reacting and responding, and the importance of observing the egoic mind.

He explains that overanalyzing creates a barrier to experiencing what we want to create.

Aaron emphasizes trusting the natural course of life and the larger part of oneself.

He concludes by encouraging viewers to observe their thoughts, trust the process, and be present in the moment.

Transcripts

play00:05

Welcome back to another video. My name is Aaron, and I help people

play00:10

Expand their consciousness now this video. I'll be showing you how to stop overthinking

play00:19

Over analyzing and how to actually trust the course of your life

play00:26

Now this video can help transform the way that you think and the way that you

play00:31

Identify with what you think and for me? This is one of the most powerful

play00:36

Ideas that really transformed my life, and I'll give a little bit of a backstory

play00:40

I've explained some of these ideas before, but this was a question that I got asked yesterday in the comments on

play00:48

Yesterday's video and what I want to do is kind of explain it in a way that I think is packaged

play00:53

And there's easy to understand now. I used to be somebody that was very

play00:58

Identified with negative thinking, and it would make me very anxious and just to give a little bit of a backstory

play01:04

I went through a lot of pain growing up

play01:06

I went through a lot of situations and from that there are two routes up could have gone

play01:11

I could have gotten down the road of feeling get victim like guilty mentality like why did this happen and

play01:17

Constantly beat myself up about it and the other road was the road that I eventually got to because the pain got so much

play01:24

That I had to learn how to dis identify with the things that have happened

play01:28

To really feel them and then to let them go and not to let that be my story

play01:33

anymore and the way that I did that was I remember I learned how to meditate and I was so focused on trying to

play01:42

Control my thoughts it was shortly after I learned and watch the movie the secret, so I'm like oh my thoughts were very powerful

play01:49

They're creating my kind of experiences

play01:51

So that's when I started it in a way like sabotage myself because I was so focused on controlling

play01:57

But what I found was is the more that I tried to control what I was thinking the more that it actually

play02:05

Resisted the more that I actually was like me versus me

play02:08

It was like there was almost just resistance that was naturally building

play02:12

But I remember about two or three days into meditating

play02:15

I began to just simply observe my thoughts

play02:19

It was almost like there's the reactive mind

play02:21

And there's the spot that we could get into there's this little bit of space where we can observe

play02:27

that reactive mind we can learn to observe what we're thinking of and I remembered that it was a paradox because as

play02:33

I wasn't trying to control my mind as I was just

play02:38

Observing the thoughts that would flow into my mind they would come in. They would go out

play02:43

They would eventually start to slow down

play02:45

So the key to this is understanding that this is not about controlling your mind

play02:51

that if you try to control that will build resistance instead

play02:56

Allow the thoughts to be there and observe them from a neutral place

play03:01

now in order to understand the neutral place

play03:03

I've used this analogy before but imagine that you are sitting at a park on a park bench

play03:09

And you are just there observing your surroundings

play03:12

Just relaxing if you watch what people walk by you're just observing them walk by you're not judging them

play03:19

You're not putting labels to them and if you do have the mind puts a label on them you're not identified with it

play03:25

You're just observing what's happening now in the way that a dog might walk by you

play03:30

you would just observe the dog walking by you wouldn't try to

play03:34

Follow the dog you wouldn't try to control the way the dog is moving and the same way treat the thoughts the same way

play03:41

Don't try to control the thoughts that come into the mind just watch them as they go through

play03:46

just allow them to be there in the Paradox is that in

play03:51

Allowing them to be there eventually they will go away more and more

play03:56

Now think of your mind in the neural networks of how we think in the form of momentum

play04:02

When we give momentum to the way that we're thinking when we give?

play04:06

Identification with those thoughts we are strengthening the neural circuitry in our brain

play04:10

We are making it have more and more power over us

play04:14

But the moment we observe those thoughts the moment we start to neutralize the charge of that momentum

play04:22

Then we can put it in the direction of where we want to go so the key to over analyzing and overthinking is

play04:30

observation and understand it might feel a little bit hard at first, but the more you do it the

play04:37

Easier it becomes for me it took a couple times of meditating before I got just a taste of it

play04:42

It was like I did it and like a day or two later

play04:46

I did it again

play04:46

And it was a little bit easier to get to that space

play04:49

you'll find there's also a feeling that comes with this and a simple technique to

play04:54

Really get out of overthinking is to bring the awareness not to the intellectual illness not to the head

play05:00

Bring it into the body by feeling into your sense perceptions

play05:05

That means put the awareness into your hands put the awareness into your chest into your legs

play05:11

just simply put the awareness there think about it and as you think about feeling from that it brings the

play05:17

Awareness to where then you can't be over identified with thinking now a lot of the techniques

play05:22

I share in this video came from a book called the power of now by Eckhart Tolle

play05:26

And it's very powerful because it's so simple

play05:30

It is really so simple, but think about it the mind wants complex strategies complex techniques

play05:36

And that's why most of what I share on this channel

play05:38

I try to break these complex ideas into the most simple way we could possibly

play05:43

Understand it because then it's practical then we can apply it and the next time you find yourself with a momentum of overthinking

play05:52

Start to observe the thoughts let them be there

play05:55

Don't resist it allow it and watch how with time

play05:59

They begin to less and more and more and you get to the space of observation that is a very good feeling

play06:06

That's what they call presence you become

play06:09

present to the Moment

play06:10

now the other part of this is letting go of the self image and the label of you being somebody that

play06:18

Overthinks and somebody that over analyzes

play06:21

When you think of yourself do you put the label on yourself of I overthink too much and I overanalyze?

play06:28

And if you do it's okay, but realize you can start to view yourself as this person

play06:34

That's able to observe and as you observe that part of yourself

play06:39

you will start to feel that that is who you are you can let go of these labels and

play06:45

Start to really let go of that emotional baggage that comes with it, and you can start to identify

play06:50

with being somebody that

play06:52

Responds rather than reacts there is a huge difference in that now another part of this is understanding

play06:59

that if there's something we want to create if there's something we want to experience and we

play07:05

Overanalyze it we build resistance and we actually create a barrier to us experiencing it

play07:10

Realize that any time. We overanalyze what we're saying is we don't trust in the natural course of our life

play07:17

We don't trust in our greater self and being able to make this happen. We need our ego

play07:23

Which is a very small part of ourselves to control everything

play07:27

Then the ego is trying to do something. That's not its job

play07:31

the job of the Ego is to

play07:33

Focus the job of the ego is to decide what it does and doesn't want but it's not the only part of ourselves

play07:40

The idea is that we can?

play07:43

realize that the more we over think and over identify with our thinking the more we're not trusting in the larger scope of

play07:50

What we can accomplish and really who we are

play07:53

Realize the job of your ego is to simply focus

play07:57

but to understand that that's not just who you are if you put the trust and the

play08:02

larger part of yourself by trusting the process of your life

play08:07

Everything will begin to change you won't be so

play08:09

Identified with that thinking because you'll observe the egoic thoughts you'll observe that reaction mind

play08:16

And you'll start to then actually observe it from a point of response

play08:22

That's where the biggest change can be and one of the biggest changes. That's been made in my life is

play08:28

realizing that in the moment of stimulus in the moment of thought

play08:32

There's a small space and in that space you can decide that

play08:37

That is a part of who you are or that's not a part of who you are

play08:41

You can decide to think more of it or to think less of it and in that moment

play08:46

You can observe it and that will neutralize

play08:49

Everything so the most powerful technique that you can apply is to simply observe your thoughts

play08:55

Bring the awareness from the head and into the body

play08:59

Feel into it

play09:00

And then simply trust the course of your life and knowing that everything will happen the way

play09:07

It's meant to happen and your job is to simply decide what things mean to you and decide to be present to the moment

play09:14

So with that being said I hope you guys enjoyed this video feel free to like this video if you liked it subscribe

play09:22

If you haven't already and as always I will see you guys on the next bit peace much love

play09:30

Namaste alright five

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Связанные теги
MindfulnessOverthinkingSelf-HelpConsciousnessMeditationEgo ManagementEmotional BaggageLife TrustPresenceAaron's Insights
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