Overthinking and Shree Krishna’s Wisdom for Inner Calm
We all do it. A small thought pops up and before long it takes over. You might wonder if you said the wrong thing, imagine your boss disapproving of your work, or replay a conversation word by word. Soon the mind is filled with “what if” questions and possible scenarios that only make you restless.
Overthinking feels like problem-solving, but in truth it rarely gives answers. What it does is steal energy, create stress, and keep you distracted from what is actually happening in front of you.
Why overthinking takes control
The mind is naturally designed to protect us. In the past, thinking ahead kept our ancestors safe from real threats. Today, that same habit often shows up in unhelpful ways. Instead of protecting us, it can trap us in repeated cycles of doubt, second-guessing, and unnecessary worry.
Usually it appears in two main forms:
- Living in the past: Going over mistakes, wishing you had acted differently, or holding on to regret.
- Projecting into the future: Worrying about the future often means picturing failure or expecting the worst without any real reason.
Both keep us stuck in moments that are not real anymore. Life only exists in the present, yet the mind convinces us otherwise.
Shree Krishna’s timeless reminder
In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna teaches us to stop being pulled into the past or the future, as neither is in our hands. What’s gone cannot return, and what’s ahead has not arrived yet. Our true power is in this moment, because here is where we can actually make a difference.
Whenever your thoughts start running in circles, take a moment and gently ask yourself:
“Is this truly happening now, or is it just my mind creating a story?”
Often, realizing it is only a thought is enough to bring peace back.
Practical ways to quiet the mind
- Breathe deeply: Slow breaths signal safety to your body and ease a restless mind.
- Put it on paper: Writing down worries makes them lighter and easier to understand.
- Get moving: A short walk, a stretch, or any small action helps you return to the present.
- Limit worry time: Allow yourself a brief slot to think, then gently set it aside.
- Stay mindful: Notice your breath, your body, or what’s around you to anchor yourself in now.
Conclusion
Thinking too much (overthinking) does not change what will happen, nor does it truly stop mistakes. Instead, it drains your peace, focus, and happiness. By letting go of thoughts that serve no purpose, you allow space for calm and clarity. Choices feel simpler, and life becomes lighter.
The next time your mind starts weaving endless stories, remind yourself of Shree Krishna’s guidance – return to the present moment. Most of the fears you imagine never come true, but the sense of calm you can experience right now is always available.
