The Overthinking Paradox is the ultimate exercise for the chronically overthinking individual.
You see, the paradox is that the more you think about a problem, the more you'll realize you have no idea what you're doing, and thus, the more you'll overthink it.
This is where the cycle of self-doubt starts, and where the overthinker gets lost forever.
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Take any mundane task or problem, like making breakfast or fixing a leaky faucet. The goal is to overthink it until you can't even.
- Breakfast: What type of cereal should you eat? What kind of milk should you drink? Is the cereal box too big? Is the milk carton too small?
- Faucet: What kind of faucet is this? Should you use a wrench or pliers? Is the leak a sign of a deeper plumbing issue?
Step 2: Rationalize the Overthinking
Once you've identified the problem, rationalize your overthinking by creating an elaborate narrative around it.
- You can't eat the cereal because it's not gluten-free, and what if you're allergic to gluten, but you can't remember the last time you had a gluten reaction, but what if you have one now?
- You shouldn't fix the faucet because you're not sure you can trust the tools, but what if the tools are actually sentient and will turn on you?
Step 3: Repeat Ad Nauseam
Repeat steps 1-2 until you can no longer think, or until you've lost interest.
Remember, the goal is to get lost in an infinite loop of overthinking, so don't worry if you get stuck.