I believe you are getting a bit too far into semantics and absolutes. One cannot escape the fact that humans are thinking things. Once one understands his or her thinking nature, the prudent behavior is to “think about thinking.”

Thinking about thinking can become a circular exercise; but not if done correctly.

Perhaps we can agree that living life unconsciously, with a lack of self-awareness, is potentially destructive behavior. At the same time, thinking too much can create analysis paralysis.

Thinking about thinking, done correctly, is simply making decisions consciously with the objective of recognizing and removing bad habits and forming good ones.

Great post, this often holds me back like a couple of the readers have said. Often I’m afraid to take action and the opportunities pass me by. Thanks for this post I think it has been the kick in the teeth I needed to take more action.

I probably suffer from this problem of thinking ruining my life and relate to a lot you have written (or maybe, most people do). Well written though. Conveys what I’ve always thought, but never (and still don’t) have a solution to.

Sounds depressing I know but it’s a philosophy that’s worth looking in to.

“You must become aware of everything you are feeling all the time. Continuously scanning your energy system and the accompanying thoughts, moment by moment, is emotional awareness. Emotional awareness means relaxing into the present moment even when it contains painful emotions. Intimacy means trusting that the universe will provide what you need, when you need it, and in a manner most appropriate for you.”

Thanks for the comment – different opinions are always welcome on this blog.

To me, overthinking is still thinking. Hence the can in the article’s title.

Question: you say thinking never hurt anyone, but what about negative thinking? That is not necessarily overthinking.