Insights from ‘Stop Overthinking’ by Nick Trenton Flashcards
What is overthinking?
Overthinking is when you analyze past events and worry about upcoming events to the point where you cannot focus on a simple task.
True or False: Overthinking gives us a sense of taking action.
True. It gives the illusion of doing something about the problem, even if it’s unproductive.
What is the first step in the 5-4-3-2-1 method for reducing anxiety?
Look at five objects in your environment.
Fill in the blank: The 5-4-3-2-1 method involves engaging the _____ senses.
five
How does the 5-4-3-2-1 method help reduce anxiety?
It distracts the mind, keeping your awareness outside your head, which helps lower anxiety and regain control.
Explain the Counter-Belief Experiment in one sentence.
It’s a method to challenge anxiety-inducing beliefs by identifying, inverting, and testing them with evidence to reduce anxiety.
What question can help clarify an anxiety-inducing belief?
What must I believe about myself, others, or the future to justify my anxiety?
Provide an example of inverting a belief to form a counter-belief.
If you believe, ‘I’m not prepared for this presentation,’ the counter-belief would be, ‘I am well prepared for this presentation.’
What is the purpose of a worry appointment?
To acknowledge worry and confine it to a set time, preventing it from spreading throughout the day.
True or False: Worry postponement aims to eliminate worry entirely.
False. It aims to limit the time and duration of worry, not eliminate it completely.
How does noticing fine details of an object help reduce overthinking?
It redirects your awareness outside your mind, reducing anxious thoughts and giving a sense of control.
Fill in the blank: ‘Worry postponement is a way to interrupt _____ spirals.’
anxiety
Why is it difficult to think your way out of overthinking?
Even with a perfect plan, your mind will continue to race if anxiety is still present.
According to Nick Trenton, what is one effect of identifying evidence for a counter-belief?
It helps you doubt your original belief, reducing anxiety and calming overthinking.
True or False: The 5-4-3-2-1 method involves detecting two tastes.
False. It involves detecting two smells, not tastes.
