“If you let go of that thought, what’s your next thought?
This simple question has the power to change your entire day. Had I known this ‘thought-game’ back in my corporate days, it might have saved me from countless hours of overthinking and stress.
I remember those mornings, the commute to the office feeling like a mental marathon. My mind would race with endless to-do lists, anxieties about upcoming meetings, and worries about projects. By the time I arrived, I already felt drained and burdened.
It shouldn’t be that way. Work can be a source of joy, fulfillment, and even flow. But how do we get there when our minds are constantly pulling us in a thousand different directions?
The key is to realize that we have a choice. We can either believe every thought that pops into our heads, getting swept away by the current, or we can learn to observe them with a sense of detachment.
just a cloud passing?
Think of your thoughts as clouds passing across the sky. They come and go, constantly changing. Some are light and fluffy, others dark and stormy. But none of them are permanent. They are simply visitors in the landscape of your mind.
When you learn to observe your thoughts without judgment, you create a space for clarity and presence. You realize that you are not your thoughts. You are the awareness that witnesses them.
And in that space of awareness, a shift occurs. The constant chatter subsides. Worries and anxieties lose their grip. You begin to see things with a fresh perspective. Challenges become opportunities. Work becomes a source of engagement rather than a burden.
And before you doubt whether you will ever achieve more peace of mind: Yes it’s possible for you as well. It may take some practice as observing or only noticing thoughts isn’t something that comes in naturally to many people. the good thing is, though, you can basically practice this anytime. Even right now.
Just take a few quiet moments. Be conscious about what’s going on in your mind. When a thought appears (which will happen whether you want it or not) try not judging it, try to look at it like something like “Oh, interesting or insightful” whatever it is that you can associate with it. And then let it go.
A helpful step in observing your thought
Another way can be to give your thoughts a name. So that it’s not “I” who is thinking but basically a 3rd person thinking these thoughts. Give it a try, even if it makes you laugh. But this can help you detach or de-identify with your own thinking and be a helpful step not to overthink.
If there are strong emotions associated with your thinking, you can also tell yourself that “I believe I feel xyz” instead of directly saying/thinking i.e. “I am sad, I am stressed”. Same effect over time as described above.
So, the next time you find your mind racing, ask yourself: “If you let go of that thought, what’s your next thought?” See what happens. You might be surprised by the sense of peace and clarity that emerges.
Want to explore this further? Connect with me to learn more about how this simple technique can transform your work and your life.
