What does it mean to be an overthinker?
Essentially it’s the act of putting too much thought and analysis into something, usually resulting in worry and anxiety, and sometimes creating problems that don’t even exist.
Read on to find out 10 signs that you are dating an overthinker.
1) They overanalyze everything
One of the most telling signs of an overthinker is that they analyze everything you say and do. From the bigger things to the smallest of things like what that off-the-cuff statement you said really means.
And guess what?
They will also consider what you haven’t said and done, such as how long it’s been since you last texted or called.
They are like a conversation detective, constantly on the search for clues to hidden meanings. And they often read the worst into your words and actions.
This leads to the next sign of an overthinker in relationships:
2) They constantly seek reassurance
If there’s one thing your overthinking partner craves, it’s reassurance. They have an insatiable appetite for validation and confirmation of your feelings and intentions.
They analyze what you’ve said and how long it’s been since you last messaged or phoned, because a part of them is assuming the worst.
Have you noticed that they often ask you for reassurance?
Or that they see a delay in your reply as confirmation that you do not feel strongly about them?
They may also simply sit in silence, worrying more and more but too afraid to say anything.
Much of this comes from insecurity.
Tip: Help them out by being clear about how you feel about them and establish a clear communication schedule.
3) They worry too much about what others think
This insecurity and need for validation also creeps into their social and work life and they may spend a lot of time wondering if people like them and think well of them.
You may find them asking you questions such as:
“What do you think Katy meant by that?” or…
“Does everyone think I’m stupid because I didn’t know what ‘vibes’ means?”
They are very scared of being judged by others but they don’t realize that they are the ones judging themselves.
4) They always seem to assume the worst
This is also known as catastrophic thinking, and that is why they are always seeking reassurance and worrying about what others may be thinking.
If your partner does this, then their mind often gravitates towards worst-case scenarios, envisioning every possible negative outcome and getting consumed by anxiety.
For example: They’re about to meet your parents for the first time.
Their mind conjures up a series of terrible scenes. They stumble over their words, accidentally spill red wine on your parents’ pristine white carpet, and unintentionally offend them with an ill-timed joke, leading you and your family to reject them completely.
Intense, right?
The fear of making a terrible first impression becomes an epic drama, with disastrous consequences, playing out like a bad dream in their mind.
5) They make assumptions about you
Why do overthinkers assume the worst? It is often because they have a habit of leaping to conclusions, usually with only fragments of information.
When your partner starts assuming things left and right, you know you’re dealing with a seasoned overthinker. This tendency can stir up a storm of frustration and create unnecessary quarrels.
Tip: If you realize you are dating an overthinker, you can help by gently guiding them out of their mind maze and helping them to see the world through your eyes.
Remember, a dash of empathy and patience can work wonders in taming the wild assumptions within their overthinking minds!
6) They have difficulty making decisions
For the overthinker, who sees just how badly everything and anything could go, making decisions is very difficult. They will think about the problem or choice from every angle or aspect, seeing every nuance and every shade of gray.
Look:
We all want to avoid bad choices, but the overthinker will often end up in a state of analysis paralysis.
Tip: You can work with them as a team, listening, and making use of all the effort they’ve put in to consider everything about the decision, and then pick the best choice, and set them free!
7) They frequently don’t sleep well
If your boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse is an overthinker, they are likely to suffer from insomnia.
As you can see, an overthinker is generally a worried person. But it can also be that they are thinking about interesting things, things on their to-do list, what to cook for dinner tomorrow or well, just about anything!
The point is this – your overthinker has trouble turning off their mind, even when it is time to sleep.
Tip: Encourage them to meditate before bed, perhaps run them a bath or give them a massage to help their brains unwind. Don’t engage in stimulating conversations with them at night!
8) They are great problem solvers
Although being (and being with) an overthinker can be tiring at times, it’s not all doom and gloom!
The good news is that overthinkers are natural problem solvers.
Their minds are adept at considering multiple perspectives, weighing options, and anticipating potential challenges.
This analytical approach can be really great for you when it comes to finding creative solutions for various situations and in resolving conflicts in your relationship.
9) They really pay attention to the little things
Another sign that you are with an overthinker is their gift for paying attention to details.
While this can lead to perfectionism, it can also mean that you feel very special when in a relationship with them.
Why?
Because they have a talent for noticing the subtleties, the tiny shifts, and the little gestures that really matter in a relationship. This heightened sense of observation allows them to make you feel truly seen and appreciated.
By acknowledging the little things that often go unnoticed, they bring an added depth and richness to the connection, making you feel valued and cherished.
Example: They remember conversations you had months ago about that book you’ve been eyeing or the concert you’ve always wanted to attend. When the time is right, they surprise you with a thoughtful gift related to that!
10) They respond to you with outstanding empathy
Another great way to tell if you are with someone who thinks a lot is this:
They take the time to navigate their own emotional landscape and do the same for you
This is because overthinkers are like emotional adventurers, skilled at delving into the intricate realm of your feelings.
Armed with their heightened emotional depth, they become masters of empathy, offering profound insights that bring comfort and support during the highs and lows of your relationship.
Is your lover an overthinker?
If you see several aspects of your partner in this article, then chances are, they are an overthinker. If so, be kind to them and try to be clear and open with your communication, because, in the words of poet Christine Evangelou:
“A crowded mind
Leaves no space
For a peaceful heart”
Give your overthinker a helping hand in calming their mind, and you’ll reap the rewards of a happier relationship. By offering your support and understanding, you can help them worry less while embracing their unique skills.
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