Overthinking feels productive—but it’s really a mental treadmill. Andrew and Cat share simple, science-backed ways to break rumination loops, calm anxiety, and take clear next steps.
Big ideas
- Overthinking ≠ problem-solving. It’s a certainty-seeking loop fueled by anxiety.
- Awareness is step one. “I’m trying to change what can’t be changed” stops past-focused spirals.
- Name it to tame it. Label the pattern (“I’m catastrophizing” / “Amy* is yapping again”) to reduce its grip.
- *Amy = your “amygdala alarm”—a playful mental cue.
- Interrupt the loop. Pattern-breakers (breath, movement, grounding) shift brain states.
- Get it out of your head. Journal, voice-notes, therapist, trusted friend—externalize the swirl.
- You already know more than you think. Get still; your body’s “yes/no” shows up fast.
- Action ends rumination. Any small next step beats spinning in maybe-land.
The Anti-Overthinking Playbook
- Spot it: “I’m looping.” (Awareness)
- Label it: “This is catastrophizing / future-tripping / should-storming.” (Name to tame)
- Pattern break (pick one):
- Box breathing 4–4–4–4 (1–2 min)
- 5–4–3–2–1 grounding (see/hear/feel)
- 10–15 minute walk (movement beats rumination)
- Hand on heart, slow breaths (drop from head → body)
- Externalize: 60-second brain dump (paper or voice note). If it’s still noisy, share with a therapist or trusted person.
- Choose one: Flip a coin or ask: “What would Future Me thank me for?” Notice your gut reaction → decide.
- Micro-action: One concrete step within 5–10 minutes (email, calendar block, checklist start).
- If it returns: Repeat. You’re building a new habit, not chasing perfection.
Quick scripts & mental cues
- Sleep cue: Silently repeat, “I’m not thinking” for ~60–90 seconds; return to breath when you drift.
- Yappy-dog reframe: “Thanks, Amy. Into the crate you go—I’ll revisit this at 4pm.” (Schedule the worry window.)
- Self-compassion: “I’m worrying because I care. I can choose peace by taking one small action.”
Tools Cat & Andrew use
- “Worry window” (10–15 min/day) to contain rumination
- Movement first: short walk, light chores, or stretching whenever loops start
- Coin-toss clarity to surface true preference
- Heart-breath check-in before decisions
Reframes to keep
- No wrong choices. Every decision is a result or a lesson. Both move you forward.
- Indecision is a decision. You’re choosing anxiety over momentum—pick a tiny step instead.
Glimmers
- Cat: A three-day weekend to reset and prep for Andrew’s visit.
- Andrew: Packing to fly out—looking forward to time together.
Resources mentioned (friendly starting points)
- Nonviolent Communication — Marshall B. Rosenberg (for clear needs/requests)
- Grounding & breath practices (box breathing, 5-4-3-2-1)
Stay connected
Questions, coaching, or topic requests: hello@fiveyearyou.com
More episodes & freebies: fiveyearyou.com
IG: @fiveyearyou
Affiliate note: As Amazon...
