Get on With It: Things You Should Stop Overthinking

There’s reason to believe that people who over-think things may be more creative. But, man, you’re not doing yourself any favors by dwelling on that email you need to send. The best thing you can do to combat overthinking is simple: Take action! Make a decision or just do the thing you’re turning over about in your head.

Here are eight things I know I’ve personally gotten my brain stuck on before…

• Which clothes to purge and donate. If you haven’t worn it in a year, out it goes. Even coats. Even shoes. Especially shoes.
• Inviting a new friend out with you. That funny girl you met in the elevator? She probably would love to be friends with you too.
• Choosing a paint color. “Birds Egg” and “China Blue” are not all that different after all. Put down the paint chips, pick up a brush and make the choice.
• Preparing for a party. It’s probably enough food. But even if it’s not, life will go on (and there’s always delivery pizza).
• If you can get a better deal on something. Sure, hunting for a bargain can definitely pay off, but consider the opportunity cost of the time you’re spending, too. It might be worth it to just pull the trigger on a higher price to spare your time and attention.
• Pretending you’re going to fix that broken thing. Those ripped pants have been in your closet for long enough. It’s time to either take them to a tailor or to a donation center.
• Writing that email, text or Facebook message. Grab your phone and get the thoughts out of your head and into a note, then hit send.
• Whether or not you should RSVP to a party. If you’re exhausted, broke, or y’know, just don’t really feel like going, remember “No” is a complete sentence.

What indecisive moments do you have to handle? It helps to have an outside perspective, so maybe we can all help each other out in the comments.