A confession from someone who overthinks everything

It's time to let go of this habit. No Images? Click here       Dear Good Life readers, “Don’t overthink it.” That’s the reminder that stares at me every morning from my dresser. It’s spelled out on a lightbox, angled directly toward my bed. I have a tendency to get wrapped up in my thoughts, analyzing each situation down to the tiniest details: “Did I sound too abrasive in that work email?” “Did I just say something that turned off this guy I’m dating?” “Did I do something to piss off my roommates?” At the crux of my overthinking is my genuine fear of being vulnerable, and feeling scared that who I am can somehow turn off people I like, love or respect. This kind of thinking can tear apart my mental health. Research shows that overthinking can impede performance and judgment, and can lead to anxiety. And the worst part? Most of the time, everything I’m worried about ends up turning out relatively okay (and in the times where it doesn’t, I usually figure out a different solution). I’m sure there are others who also ruminate too much, and if you’re reading, I want you to know that I totally empathize with you. However, we need to let go of this habit. It’ll take some time, but it’s absolutely essential to our well-being. There has to be a balance between “overthinking” and “introspection.” It’s good to be self-aware and reflective. But dissecting every interaction in our lives is not. My goal in 2018 is to find that balance. Want to join me? Stay tuned this week for a story on how to do that: I’ll chat with experts on how to be a happier, calmer, more secure person in the new year. In the meantime, as my lightbox says, “don’t overthink it.” Or if you do, remind yourself that it’ll all be okay. Love, Lindsay Senior Wellness Editor, HuffPost Life Turn up the Wellness Jams Wellness Jams is a curated workout or relaxing playlist from celebrities, influencers and readers. This week, “Survivor: Micronesia” winner Parvati Shallow shares some relaxing tunes she plays at the end of a busy day. Check out what Parvati had to say about how music helps center her, and follow her wellness journey on Instagram: After a crazy day of travel or a busy workday, I may not have it in me to hit a yoga or workout class. But, I can always find the energy for a hot bubble bath. Pour some lavender-scented Epsom salts in the tub, and sink into this spiritually centered playlist for maximum relaxation. As an added bonus, many of these songs are Sanskrit and Kundalini mantras that will help to clear the mind, release the stress of the day and open up the space to connect with your higher self. So, if you feel inspired, go ahead and sing along — we all know our voices sound better in the tub anyway. Hit Play On Parvati's Playlist Here Words of wellness Cole Sprouse on how depression led him to a new passion: “I was sad and in a dark place, and I turned to a hobby to sort of take me out of that. And I found photography.” Beyoncé on healthy balance: “I love my butter pecan ice cream, but I also love to work out. We all have our issues. Mine is arms and legs, keeping them tight and toned. It takes work, believe me.” Michelle Obama on what it means to actually live well: “It’s multifaceted. It’s physical, it’s internal, it’s my diet and my emotional state — it’s all tied in together.”   Crushing on this 'Gram Want more wellness? 7 Expert-Approved Ways To Ward Off The Winter Blues There's a difference between seasonal depression and feeling low. Here's how to tell and what to do about it. How To Figure Out If You Have A Cold Or Just Allergies Pay attention to these early warning signs. 11 Brilliant Ways Therapists Control Their Own Holiday Stress Because even the pros need help sometimes. Love this newsletter? Use this link to share it with a friend!    .     No moon dust. No B.S. Just a completely essential daily guide to achieving the good life. Subscribe here. Like what you see? Share it. Can't get enough? You'll also love: HuffPost Must Reads. ©2017 HuffPost | 770 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 You are receiving this email because you signed up for updates from HuffPost Feedback | Privacy Policy | Unsubscribe    . - - Preferences  |  Unsubscribe