A state like this is sometimes referred to as analysis paralysis.
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How Does Analysis Paralysis Happen?
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Analysis paralysis stops us from moving forward and keeps us swirling in this whirlwind of thoughts.
The more complicated the tasks were, the more activity there was in this brain region.
According to the researchers, this overthinking made the task more difficultand more prone to mistakes.
What Kinds of Decisions Lead to Analysis Paralysis?
Some decisions we make are simple and are likely to not leave us confused and overwhelmed.
Making a clear, confident decision can start to feel impossible.
What Does Analysis Paralysis Feel Like?
Most anyone can relate to feeling confused and would likely agree that it is not pleasant.
Our stress might increase, our thoughts race and we can become frustrated.
You may experience stress-related symptoms such as:
Mindful Moment
Need a breather?
Which Traits Contribute to Analysis Paralysis?
Some decisions may be obvious and easy to make, while others require more emotional or cognitiveflexibility.
Many unknowns and potential outcomes in these types of decisions can impact us and those we care about.
Lack of Confidence
There are many reasons someonemay experience a lack of confidencein decision-making.
Empathy
When we feelempathy, we are experiencing a shared emotion with another.
Remind yourself that it is OK to be flexible and imperfect.
What feels dangerous to us is often simply uncomfortable.
Make an intentional choice to stop asking people what they think or what they might do.
Allow yourself to be present and take the next best step.
What This Means For You
Experiencing analysis paralysis can feel uncomfortable and overwhelming.
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2016;5(4):470-477. doi:10.1016/j.jarmac.2016.11.004
American Psychological Association.Stress effects on the body.
Chen H, Pang L, Liu F, Fang T, Wen Y.
Published 2019 Sep 13. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02012
