Do We Actually Overthink?

If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking “I just can’t switch my brain off,” you’re in good company. Many dyslexics describe themselves as overthinkers, but what if that’s not the whole story? In this podcast episode, we dig deeper into the idea of overthinking and shine a light on how our minds truly work.

We explore how dyslexic brains naturally connect dots, jump between ideas, and notice details others might miss. We also look at why we keep calling it overthinking. Is it simply how we process the world? Or is it something else? Below is a taster of what we covered in the show.

The “Overthinker” Label

Have you ever had someone call you an overthinker? Or perhaps that’s your go-to term for yourself. I used to own that label like a badge. It explained why my mind was in so many places at once.

But calling ourselves overthinkers can feel negative. It suggests we’re stuck in thought spirals and can’t find a clear path out. That can lead to frustration and, worse, feelings of guilt. There’s a big difference between overthinking and living with a busy mind that sees patterns, spots opportunities, and notices pitfalls.

Deep Processing vs Overthinking

One idea from the podcast was that maybe dyslexics aren’t truly overthinking. We might just be giving more attention to how things interconnect. Our brains love exploring hidden layers and alternative paths. It’s a form of deep processing.

Deep processing often means:

• We ask a lot of “what if” questions.
• We run through several scenarios before deciding.
• We notice patterns that others might gloss over.

Those traits don’t need to be problems. They can help us find creative answers and spot potential issues early. Though it can feel messy or overwhelming, it’s also a kind of superpower.

The Chaotic Mind

I’ve often said I have a rolling conversation in my head. There’s always dialogue playing out. At first, I tried to shut it off, thinking I was overthinking. But after years of exploring dyslexia, I realised this is how my mind naturally functions.

In the episode, I shared a thought that’s stuck with me:

“It’s not really overthinking when my mind jumps around. It’s simply how I absorb and organise the world.”

Our minds aren’t just going in circles. We’re processing info from multiple angles. We don’t have a neat, linear approach, so it can look or feel like overthinking, especially if we compare ourselves to neurotypical peers.

Embracing Our Unique Brain

Sometimes we hide the fact that our brain just won’t sit still. We might be afraid of judgement or worried people will label us as anxious. Yet no two dyslexic minds are the same, and there’s real value in how we see and hear the world.

When you call yourself an overthinker, remember you’re probably:

• Seeing connections others miss.
• Generating creative ideas in a flash.
• Finding hidden obstacles and solutions!

A Quick Reality Check

Sometimes it does get too much. If you’re wide awake at 3 a.m. chasing thoughts, it might be a sign to switch gears. Over-focusing on every possibility can lead to burnout. In this episode, I offer a few tips to rein in the chaos when it starts to steal your peace.

Try these ideas:

1. Write it down: Offload thoughts onto paper. Even a quick list on your phone can do wonders.
2. Distract gently: Sometimes you just need a break. Take a walk or watch something that pulls you out of your head.
3. Set time blocks: Decide on a window to think about an issue, then move on when time’s up.

These aren’t cures. They’re just stepping stones that help keep your mental energy in check.

Before you choose to see yourself as an overthinker, pause and look for the deeper function underneath. Maybe your constant brainstorming is a reflection of how you best learn. Perhaps your mind, with its leaps of insight, is pushing you to unearth something remarkable.

• We don’t all process the world in a top-down fashion. Some of us think side to side.
• It’s not overthinking if it’s part of your natural design.
• Label yourself carefully. Often “overthinker” is just a placeholder that hides deeper truths.
• When it feels overwhelming, pause and reset with simple tools that help ground you.

Ready to learn more? The full podcast episode is waiting for you at the top of this page. Have a listen and find out why it’s time to stop calling yourself an overthinker. Embrace your unique dyslexic mind instead.