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Writer's pictureJohneh Shankar

How and When to Stop: Thinking

There are a million resources out there in the WWW about how and when to start something. Entrepreneurship, an online course, exercise and physical fitness and most of them tend to pin point to one answer, there's no better time to "start something" than "now". But very few thoughts on How and When to Stop doing certain things. So, I stopped thinking and started writing this, right away. As human beings, our brain is wired to constantly think, analyze and process information. However, sometimes we get stuck in 'thinking', leading to negative feelings, anxiety, and stress. Visibly harmless, thinking could become fatal at times, which can only be realized in the hindsight. I am not talking about 'overthinking', which is a very stupidly coined word. There's no 'over' in thinking. Is it 'stoppable' or 'unstoppable' is what sets the distinction. If you look back, like I do, there is a huge chunk of chance, that 'Thinking' is the big fat wall between you and what you are actually capable of doing. I write well, but 'Thinking' took almost a decade of my lifetime, before I started this blog.


In pop philosophy, there is a notion of being thoughtless, the highest state of mind and such things. Actually, even in meditation, there's possibly no state of being thoughtless. It happens only either when you're deep asleep or dead. The latter I haven't experienced yet. But you can stop thinking, by start doing. It is only when you engage in something, you can stop the war between your mind and information. This might not be news for those who are already arrived at this state. But this article is for those who are still behind, thinking.


It's important to know how and when to stop thinking to improve our well-being and overall mental health. In this series of essays, we will explore tips on how and when to stop 'certain things', drawing from both philosophy and psychology. Today, it's all about 'Thinking' or 'Stop Thinking' or 'Stopping to Think' whatever sounds grammatically perfect to you, but ideally don't over think.

  1. Challenge your thoughts: Sometimes, we get caught up in negative thoughts that can spiral out of control. It's important to challenge these thoughts by asking ourselves if they are rational or based on reality. If not, try to reframe them or let them go.

  2. Set aside time for reflection: Taking time to reflect on our thoughts and feelings can help us gain clarity and insight into our lives. However, it's important to set boundaries and not dwell on negative thoughts for too long. 30 mins of 'alone' time everyday on a deserted spot in your neighborhood is an ideal location for reflection.

  3. Engage in physical activity: Engaging in physical activity, whether it's going for a walk or hitting the gym, can help us clear our minds and release pent-up energy.

  4. Practice gratitude: Focusing on what we are grateful for can shift our attention away from negative thoughts and towards positive experiences. Practicing gratitude can also increase our overall sense of well-being.

  5. Connect with others: Social connection is an essential aspect of our well-being. Talking to others and sharing our thoughts and feelings can provide us with a fresh perspective and help us gain clarity.

  6. Take a break from technology: Technology can be a major source of distraction and stress. Taking a break from technology can give our minds a break and allow us to focus on the present moment.

  7. Engage in creative activities: Engaging in creative activities such as painting, writing, or playing music can help us tap into our subconscious mind and release pent-up emotions.

  8. Accept your thoughts and emotions: It's important to accept our thoughts and emotions, even the negative ones. Trying to suppress or ignore our emotions can lead to increased stress and anxiety.



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