How to 1551 Angel Number

Learn what significance the number 1551 holds for your personal, professional, and spiritual well-being

Are you seeing the number 1551 everywhere lately? It might not be just a coincidence. Some people believe that when your guardian angels really want to tell you something, they’ll send you a particular number that holds a special message pertaining to your love life, career, twin flame relationship, and spiritual well-being. Want to learn more? Keep reading to find out what your angels are trying to tell you!

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Angel number 1551 is a reminder to trust your gut. The universe has a divine plan for you, but it’s up to you to take the next steps—don’t doubt yourself or your abilities!
• In matters of love, 1551 is a sign it’s time to take the next step in your relationship, whether that’s becoming exclusive, moving in together…or even ending things.
• If you’ve had a falling out with your twin flame, you may soon reunite. Continue to focus on your personal growth, and your reunion will be a success.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]1551 Meaning

1. Angel number 1551 is a sign to trust in your intuition. The universe has a plan for you, but the future is still in your hands. Practice listening to your gut and growing more confident in who you are; your self-knowledge will guide you along your divine path.^[1]
   
   • In numerology, the number 1 refers to new beginnings, as well as the individual or the self. This speaks to your need to trust yourself and develop your self-knowledge and awareness.
   • The number 5 is the number of innovation and creation, but it can also suggest busyness and a lack of focus. This number may indicate a need to step back and reassess what you are devoting your time and energies to.
2. This number may mean positive change is coming. As you grow in your own self-knowledge, you may see the need to step out of your comfort zone and enter a new chapter of life. This can be scary, but don’t despair: trust that it’s all for the good of your divine purpose.
   
   • Have faith in your unique and innovative views and ideas. You have so much to offer the world, so don’t hide your light!
   • If you’re currently in a situation where you feel you can’t show your light—such as an oppressive or overwhelming work atmosphere or a toxic friendship or relationship—now is the time to assess your options: how can you find the freedom to be yourself?
3. 1551 is a strong manifestation number. Don’t forget: you are a divine being, and you hold power over your future. You are capable of manifesting whatever you want in life, so establish a regular manifestation practice, if you haven’t already. The future is yours.
   
   • Pray or meditate every day—but take time to clarify your vision for the future and focus on how you can achieve your goals. Trust that your angels will help you every step of the way—you just need to make the movements!

[Edit]1551 Meaning for Love

1. If you’re in a relationship, it may be time to take things to the next level. You’ve been doing a lot of hard work on yourself lately and have been figuring out who you are and what you want. Use this self-knowledge to determine the next steps to take in your relationship.
   
   • If you believe you’ve found your soulmate, these next steps may be expressing your love for the first time, becoming exclusive, moving in together, or marriage.
   • If your heart is telling you this relationship is no longer serving you, it’s worth considering if it’s time to end things. While the pain of separation will be great, trust that the universe will provide you—and your partner—with happier, more fulfilling futures.
2. If you’re single, expect to meet someone like-minded soon. Whether you’re content being alone or are ready to meet someone new, 1551 is a sign that the hard work you’ve been doing on yourself will open you up to romantic and platonic relationships with people who appreciate you and share your values and interests.^[2]
   
   • You’re growing daily in your self-confidence and self-knowledge, which will help you stand out to other like-minded folks and will help you be discerning about whom you allow into your heart.
   • This is a time to explore, to put yourself out there and wear your heart on your sleeve. Go to parties, strike up conversations with strangers, join clubs and take classes centered on things you love and want to learn more about. Live for you—and see what you attract.

[Edit]1551 Meaning for Twin Flames

1. If you have yet to meet your twin flame, you may soon. You’ve been exploring your passions and values and learning to trust your intuition—and this will help lead you to your twin flame.
   
   • The better you trust yourself and the more confidently you showcase who you are, the more likely you’ll be to attract your twin flame, who will see themselves in you as if you were a mirror image!
2. If you’ve met your twin flame, expect your relationship to evolve. You’re lucky enough to have found your twin flame, but the story isn’t over yet: a twin flame relationship takes hard work like any other relationship. Through your efforts, your bond will undergo positive transformations and become richer, more solid.
   
   • Cultivate trust between you both by spending quality time together—as well as by spending time on your own. Be your own people, and trust that you won’t lose your twin flame by investing in other people and opportunities.
   • When you are together, make the most of your time! Go on adventures and try new things. Ask meaningful questions to draw one another out and practice being vulnerable with one another.
3. If you’ve separated from your twin flame, a reunion is ahead. If you and your twin flame have had a falling out, take heart: you’ll find each other again. You’ve been doing hard work on yourself, and your twin flame has, too.
   
   • This will help you find common ground and see things from one another person’s perspectives.
   • But it will also help you maintain your independence as you settle into the next phase of your relationship together. Twin flame relationships can be magnetic, but strong self-knowledge will keep you from losing yourself in the bond.

[Edit]1551 Meaning for Career

1. It may be time to take a chance on a new career venture. Whether you’re feeling unfulfilled at your current position or you don’t feel you have enough time to dedicate to your passion project, 1551 is a sign it’s time to make some changes.
   
   • Maybe this means hustling so you can establish that side business you’ve always wanted—or maybe it means straight-up quitting your current position to find one that aligns with your values and abilities.
   • But you may not need a total overhaul in order to initiate positive change: consider dedicating spare time to taking classes or pursuing hobbies that you can one day turn into your career.
   • No matter how much of your time your day job takes up, if it’s not what you want, don’t let it come first in your heart: prioritize your passions and personal values first.

[Edit]What should I do if I see 1551?

1. Practice honing your intuition. Trusting your gut is essential to knowing what next steps to take in life. If you can’t trust yourself, how will you ever move outside of your comfort zone?
   
   • In fact, intuition is something you can hone just by practicing. Start small: instead of overthinking where to go for lunch, pick one place—and stick with it.^[3]
   • Trust that even if it’s the “wrong” choice, you’ll be OK. Over time, you’ll learn to stop doubting yourself and your abilities.
   • Then start applying this practice to bigger and bigger situations: what job to take, where to move, who to love. Your gut knows more than you may think right now!
2. Spend time alone to better understand yourself. Whether you’re in a relationship or not, whether you’ve found your twin flame or not, solitude is crucial for personal growth.
   
   • It may be hard at first, but in time you’ll recognize the value of being alone and reflecting.
   • Take time to write, to make art, to consider what you enjoy and love and want from life.
   • But also dedicate some alone time to having fun: go to the movies alone, try that new restaurant alone, enjoy your own company. You’re worth it.

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://numerologist.com/numerology/angel-repeating-numbers/angel-number-1551/
2. ↑ https://numerologist.com/numerology/angel-repeating-numbers/angel-number-1551/
3. ↑ https://hbr.org/2022/03/how-to-stop-overthinking-and-start-trusting-your-gut

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How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

Overcoming comparison to become the best version of yourself

It’s natural to compare yourself to others (and even envy them) if you hop on your social media for a few minutes. With just a few scrolls, you’re bombarded with vacation photos, status updates, and glossy ads. But, it doesn’t mean you have to “keep up” to live a content and meaningful life. In this article, we’ll teach you how to avoid certain triggers so you can stop comparing yourself to others. If your comparative thoughts are dragging you down, keep scrolling to discover some effective coping strategies.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

• Identify the people or events that prompt your comparative behavior, and write down your negative thoughts so you can limit your exposure to these triggers.
• Make a list of your strengths and accomplishments so you can focus on the positive aspects of your life.
• Set screen time limits for your social media to minimize your comparative thoughts, or mute accounts that make you feel “behind” in life.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]How to Overcome Comparison

1. Identify your triggers and avoid them. To stop comparing yourself to others, pay attention to the people or events that prompt your behavior. Do you feel discontent with your life after looking at luxury goods? Is there someone who constantly makes you feel bad about yourself? Write down your comparative thoughts as soon as they happen so you can limit your exposure to these situations (or avoid them altogether).^[1]
   
   • By tracking and acknowledging the way comparison makes you feel, you're more likely to change your negative behavior.
   • If you’re struggling to find the cause of your comparative behavior, you can also assess your self-esteem. Do you have a positive opinion about yourself? Do let others greatly impact your mood? If you care a lot about what other people think of you, it may be a sign to work on your happiness and improve your self confidence.
2. Write down your positive traits. When you minimize your abilities, it becomes easier to compare yourself to others—you might focus on their strengths and ignore your own completely. To avoid this negative behavior, make a list of your strengths and talents—whether it's being a good listener or having a great sense of style. By acknowledging your best qualities, you can learn to love yourself and boost your self-esteem.^[2]
   
   • To remind yourself of your positive traits, write them down on a sticky note and post it on your bathroom mirror or somewhere you will see every day.
   • When you’re feeling down or insecure, repeat the list aloud to fight negative thinking. You could say, “I am genuine. I am a loyal friend. I am an incredible photographer.”
   • If you’re having trouble creating a list, ask a trusted friend or family member what they think your best qualities are—they might mention something you never thought of before.
3. Keep a gratitude journal. A gratitude journal helps you recognize the things you may take for granted so you can fully appreciate them. To start journaling, reflect on the little things that bring you joy and write down why you’re grateful for them. By acknowledging the positive aspects of your life, you can shift your focus from others to yourself.^[3]
   
   • Instead of listing things you're grateful for, explain how they impact your life in detail. For example, if you jog in the park every day, you might express how you’re grateful for your health and how jogging helps you combat stress at work.
   • You can also practice gratitude every day by adopting an appreciative and open attitude. Pay attention to the compliments you receive or random gestures of kindness from others, no matter how small they seem.
   • Keeping a gratitude journal can increase your chances of overcoming comparison, but you may forget about it if you have a busy schedule. Set a reminder to write at least once a week so you can actively express appreciation.
4. Appreciate others instead of envying them. Consider the advantage that others can bring you. If you have friends who are highly achieving people, you might consider that their networks are full of people who might be able to help you become more successful in your life. Instead of envying their success, be supportive and use their success to your advantage.^[4]
   
   • For example, you might look at pictures of athletes to admire their fitness. Instead of feeling inferior and jealous, you can use these as motivation to make changes in your life. You could change your eating habits and get more exercise so you’re using the pictures productively instead of negatively.
5. Work on improving your abilities. Instead of focusing on your “weaknesses,” reflect on the areas you can improve. Take classes, workshops, or lessons to hone your skills and techniques, and don’t be afraid to ask other people for help along the way. By prioritizing yourself, you can boost your self-confidence and find your place and value.^[5]
   
   • Remember that perfection is an unproductive thought pattern where one holds an unrealistic ideal as a standard of achievement. Recognize that everyone's circumstances are entirely unique, but you can always work on improving your abilities to make yourself happy.
6. Compete against yourself. Instead of comparing your life to other people, use comparison to become an improved version of yourself. Set goals for yourself and try to improve your own personal best. Achieving these goals can help you establish a set of experiences separate from others’ expectations.^[6]
   
   • When you set a goal for yourself, track your progress so that you can see how you are moving toward that goal. That way, you can focus on yourself and not on other people.
   • For example, if you’re training for a marathon, run for a longer distance each week until you hit the 26-mile mark, and track how much improvement you see every week. By charting your progress, you can see how far you’ve come and how much further you have to go.
7. Judge yourself by your own standards. When you consider your background and current situation, you can reduce the competition you feel towards others because their expectations are not yours. For example, if you’re taking longer to get a graduate degree than some of your friends, think about how you are also working full-time or caring for your elderly parents.^[7]
   
   • Remember that everyone has different levels of privilege that impact their life—whether it’s time, money, or resources. Your journey is unique to you, so be patient as you work toward your goals.
8. Decrease your exposure to social media outlets. If you find that idealistic representations in the media are having a negative effect on your self-esteem, take a break from social media. For example, if you always feel “behind” in life after scrolling through Instagram, you can mute certain accounts or disable your account altogether.^[8]
   
   • You can also set screen time limits for social media apps. If you have an iPhone, go to your general settings and hit “Screen Time.” Scroll down and select “App Limits,” then program your app settings to 20-30 minutes a day or every other day.
   • When you set time limits for your social media, you can spend more time with your loved ones and learn to appreciate your reality. Gradually reduce your limit even more by setting your screen time to 10 minutes a day (or less).
9. Avoid media that shows idealistic images. If you frequently compare yourself to entertainers or influencers, limit your exposure to magazines, TV shows, or movies that feature them. Even temporary exposure to media depicting ideal images has been shown to impact self-esteem and self-image negatively.^[9]
   
   • For example, if you feel bad about your body after seeing photos of a specific model, you can stop reading popular fashion publications or block their profile on social media.
10. Use social media in a positive way. While everyone is guilty of mindless scrolling, you can make a conscious effort to control what you consume online. Instead of following accounts that give you FOMO, replace them with educational, informative, or inspirational pages. These accounts can inspire you to become a better version of yourself, boosting your self-esteem and minimizing your comparative behavior.^[10]
    
    • For example, if you want to achieve a better physical condition, you can follow fitness and healthy eating pages. If you want to improve your mind and personality, try following brain and psychology-related accounts.
    • Try to view social media as a platform to connect with loved ones, discover small businesses, and support your local community.
11. Be kind to yourself. If you’re always comparing yourself to others, you might develop a negative (and inaccurate) image of yourself. Treat yourself with the same kindness, support, and concern you’d show to a close friend, and give yourself a mental break if you feel overwhelmed or anxious.^[11]
    
    • Remember to nurture your body as well. Exercise regularly, eat an array of colors, and try to get at least 7 hours of sleep a day.
12. Talk to a trusted friend or family member. When you constantly compare yourself to others and internalize these thoughts, you can feel even more inadequate or depressed. Discuss your comparative behavior with a loved one to release any negative beliefs and help you process your emotions—you might be surprised to hear they feel the same way as you.^[12]
    
    • If you don't have a close friend or family member to talk to, seek professional help. You can find a therapist online with services like Better Help or Good Therapy.
13. Be your own coach. Think of yourself as your personal coach, pushing you toward excellence. Give love and appreciation for your efforts, but don’t be afraid to take small risks and challenge yourself. By setting attainable goals for yourself, you can raise your self-esteem, instead of lowering it.^[13]
    
    • Even if you don't reach a specific goal, give yourself credit for trying in the first place and focus on how you can move forward.
14. Replace negative thoughts with positive ones. When you compare yourself with others, you may start to view yourself negatively. If you have negative thoughts about yourself, tell yourself to change those thoughts into something about yourself that you are proud of.
    
    • For example, if you think someone else is a better writer than you, you might tell yourself, “I may not be the best writer, but I can draw very well. Besides, if I want to improve in writing, I can work towards this goal for myself instead of envying others for their talent."
    • Alternatively, distract yourself if you start to go down a comparison spiral. If you feel bad after talking to someone successful, listen to your favorite album or go for a long walk outside.
15. Start thinking realistically. Idealistic images in the media cannot always be avoided, so be aware if you're comparing yourself to them. Most people only post the highlights of their lives, so try to remind yourself that you don’t know what’s really happening in their realities.^[14]
    
    • For example, if you envy the perfect relationship that a friend has with her spouse, remember how difficult it was for her to find that partner and the challenges she may have faced. Empathy will replace jealousy.
    • If you see someone with the body, car, or life you want, try to think of actions you can take to get yourself closer to these goals and write them down.
16. Take control over your own life. Although it can be hard to resist comparing yourself to others, remind yourself that you ultimately create your own reality. If you acknowledge your ability to create the life you desire, you have control over the outcome (so there’s no need to compare your life to others).^[15]
    
    • At the end of the day, you know yourself best, so make decisions for yourself—not for anyone else!

[Edit]Why do I compare myself to others?

1. Comparison allows you to evaluate your life to see where you can improve. Since it gives you information about how you measure up to others, comparison is a natural feedback loop that can motivate you to work harder or change your behavior to achieve a certain goal. Without the ability to compare yourself to someone, you cannot tell if you have progressed at all—it’s a major component of identity and self-improvement.^[16]
   
   • For example, if your friend has a larger house than you, it can encourage you to work harder and make more money (so you can purchase a similar house).

[Edit]Why Comparison is Harmful

1. Too much comparison can lead to low self-esteem or depression. While comparing yourself to others is perfectly normal, it can negatively affect your self-esteem if you let it consume you. Comparison can discourage you from following your dreams if you aren’t achieving the same goals or milestones as your peers, and it can highlight the differences in skills, knowledge, and experience.^[17]
   
   • Remember that idealizing someone is unrealistic. Everyone has something they can work on, and you might be hyperfocusing on their positive qualities—instead of viewing them from a broad perspective.
   • Overcoming comparison is a continuous process, but it is possible! Instead of using other people as a benchmark for your success, use comparison to help structure your goals and work on self-improvement. With time and practice, you can become the best version of yourself, for yourself.

[Edit]Video

[Edit]Related wikiHows

• Be Yourself
• Be Happy
• Release Anger
• Stop Taking Things Personally

[Edit]References

 

[Edit]Quick Summary

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/social-comparison-theory#the-dangers-of-comparison
2. ↑ https://charliewaller.org/mental-health-resources/confidence-and-self-esteem/stop-comparing-yourself-to-others
3. ↑ http://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/tips_for_keeping_a_gratitude_journal
4. ↑ https://welldoing.org/article/how-stop-comparing-yourself-to-others
5. ↑ https://cen.acs.org/careers/employment/Jealous-peers-stop-comparing-yourself/96/i46
6. ↑ https://welldoing.org/article/how-stop-comparing-yourself-to-others
7. ↑ https://welldoing.org/article/how-stop-comparing-yourself-to-others
8. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/201711/the-comparison-trap
9. ↑ https://www.heartsempowerment.com/single-post/how-to-stop-comparing-yourself-to-people-on-social-media
10. ↑ https://www.heartsempowerment.com/single-post/how-to-stop-comparing-yourself-to-people-on-social-media
11. ↑ https://charliewaller.org/mental-health-resources/confidence-and-self-esteem/stop-comparing-yourself-to-others
12. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/201711/the-comparison-trap
13. ↑ https://bschool.pepperdine.edu/newsroom/articles/jaclyn-margolis-highlights-advantages-upside-social-comparison-psychology-today.htm
14. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/201711/the-comparison-trap
15. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/articles/201711/the-comparison-trap
16. ↑ https://wp.nyu.edu/mind/2021/02/27/why-do-we-compare-ourselves-to-others
17. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/bouncing-back/201508/3-reasons-stop-comparing-yourself-others

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How to Imk Meaning

Learn how to use this new term IRL (or in your DMs)

Have you ever been scrambling to guess what a new slang term means? “IMK” is an informal way of expressing an idea without being 100% positive it’s correct. In this guide, we’ll fill you in on what the acronym means in texting and on social media, as well as alternative slang terms you can use instead.

[Edit]Learn to Use “IMK” in Texts and Social Media

The acronym “IMK” stands for “In My Knowledge.” It’s an informal way of saying you’re pretty confident but not entirely sure the information you're sharing is correct. It’s like saying, “As far as I know,” “As far as I’m aware,” or “To the best of my knowledge…”

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]What does “IMK” mean?

1. “IMK” is an acronym for “In My Knowledge.” When you see “imk” in a text from a friend or on places like TikTok or Instagram, it usually means the sender is pretty confident about their answer but not completely sure. It’s another way of informally saying, “If I recall correctly,” “As far as I know,” or “I think so.”^[1]
   
   • You: “Do you think Justin is coming tonight?”
   • Them: “Imk, I sent him the invite, and he said bet.”
   • You: “Can Mom pick you up after school?”
   • Them: “Imk, she said she was free, so…”
2. “Imk” is often mistaken for “Let Me Know.” Due to the similar appearance of an uppercase “I” and lowercase “L,” sometimes “Imk” can be a misspelling of another popular texting term, “LMK” which stands for “Let Me Know.” It’s used to have someone expand on an idea or to request more information.^[2]
   
   • You: “Hey, lmk if you can come over tonight. Got cash to order food!”
   • Them: “I’m just waiting for my mom to come home, so I’ll lyk soon.”

[Edit]How to Use “IMK” in Conversation

1. Use “IMK” to share information that you believe is correct. Want to tell someone you’re pretty sure about something? Send a quick “IMK” message. The information is based on your experience or knowledge, so it’s important to remember that it doesn’t mean it’s 100% accurate.^[3]
   
   • Them: “Yo, I thought you said Justina and Devin broke up?”
   • You: “Imk!! She said she wasn’t talking to him anymore.”

[Edit]How to Reply to “IMK”

1. Learn how the sender got their information. If you received an “IMK” text, it’s okay not to feel just as confident as the sender does. After all, it’s based on information that’s privy to them—not you. Feel free to ask questions or follow up about how the other person gained that information to help shape your understanding or how you respond to a situation.^[4]
   
   • Them: “Imk the test next week isn’t happening.”
   • You: “Where’d you hear that from?”
   • Them: “I overheard Mrs. Jamison telling the guidance counselor Mr. P will be out for the next two weeks, so they’re trying to find a sub.”
   • You: “Dang. I think I’ll still study tho, just in case.”

[Edit]Alternative Meanings

1. I Must Know{endbold} “IMK” is sometimes a way to express an eagerness or demand for specific knowledge, especially during a time crunch. It’s another way of saying, “I need to know.”^[5]
   
   • “IMK what happens in the next episode of Love Is Blind!”
   • “Did you hear what happened to Shauna? IMK!!!”
2. In My Kitchen{endbold} If you’ve ever received a “Wya?” (Where You At?) or “Wyd?” (What You Doing?) text while you’re cooking it up in the kitchen, send a quick “IMK” in response.^[6]
   
   • “IMK right now, so I’ll message you when I finish.”
   • “I’ll be IMK; just pull up whenever you’re ready.”
3. I’ll Message You{endbold} This may be a less common usage for “IMK,” but some users have used the acronym to stand for “I’ll Message You,” indicating they’ll share information in your DMs rather than in the public comments on Instagram or TikTok.^[7]
   
   • “IMK you the details for the party this weekend.”
   • “Do you need the notes from class earlier? IMK!”

[Edit]Similar Slang Terms

1. AFAIK is an acronym for “As Far As I Know.” Another way to convey that what you’re saying is true based on your knowledge is by using “AFAIK.” It also indicates that you’re not completely certain but confident enough to share information.^[8]
   
   • “AFAIK, school is closed next Tuesday, so I’m sleeping in that day.”
   • “Did you hear the meeting got pushed? AFAIK Emilia did another no call no show!”
2. AFAIAA is shorthand for “As Far As I’m Aware.” If you want a more formal shorthand for “IMK,” use “AFAIAA” instead. It can be used to convey that you’re not confident of your answer and you’d like to create some distance from what was originally said.^[9]
   
   • “Henry said he did the homework on time, AFAIAA.”
   • “AFAIAA, Jesse told me she’s going to be at the party tonight even though she’s grounded.”
3. TTBOMK is an abbreviation for “To The Best Of My Knowledge.” Another formal option for expressing yourself about a particular situation or information is saying “TTBOMK.”
   
   • Them: “Have you seen Jenna since yesterday?”
   • You: “TTBOMK, Jenna’s staying at Linda’s house for the weekend.”

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://letslearnslang.com/what-does-imk-mean-in-texting/
2. ↑ https://en.amazingtalker.com/questions/1362
3. ↑ https://guidinginsta.com/dictionary/imk-meaning-instagram/
4. ↑ https://www.myenglishteacher.eu/blog/what-does-imk-mean/
5. ↑ https://letslearnslang.com/what-does-imk-mean-in-texting/
6. ↑ https://www.allacronyms.com/IMK
7. ↑ https://guidinginsta.com/dictionary/imk-meaning-instagram/
8. ↑ https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/afaik
9. ↑ https://www.cyberdefinitions.com/definitions/AFAIAA.html

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How to Love an Overthinker

If you’re dating an overthinker, you may be wondering how you can best show them you care. While your partner may be a little indecisive sometimes, rest assured that there are plenty of ways for you to support and love them. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about building a relationship with an overthinker so that you can understand and support them the best way you can.

This article is based on an interview with our clinical therapist and adjunct professor, Rebecca Tenzer, owner of Astute Counseling Services.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]Take the lead.

1. Don’t be afraid to make a decision if your partner struggles. Loving an overthinker means that you’ll need to take the reins every now and then. Lean into it and don’t shy away from making the call when it comes to which movie to see, where to grab a bite to eat, or when to take a vacation this summer. You should still talk through bigger life decisions with your partner, but revel in your role as a leader when it comes to the small stuff!^[1]
   
   • When an overthinker does step up to make a decision, respect their choice. Overthinkers have already thought through the alternatives.

[Edit]Reassure them.

1. Overthinkers often need someone to tell them it’s going to be okay. As an overthinker, your partner may spend an excessive amount of time worrying and thinking through worst-case scenarios. Even if you think your partner already knows you love them, say it anyways! If you get into a disagreement, remind them that you don’t hate them. If they’re worried about something at work or school, show them empathy and remind them they’ve got this.^[2]
   
   • Give hugs and kisses liberally, and do not hesitate to do the little things that show you care.

[Edit]Communicate honestly.

1. If they catch you in a single lie, they’ll overthink everything you say. Don’t play fast and loose with the truth around an overthinker. Your partner is observant, and if they spot some untruth, they’re never going to stop being suspicious of you in the future. If you’ve had to play games with previous partners, you won’t need to do that anymore. They mean what they say, and you should, too.^[3]
   
   • This doesn’t mean you should be cruel with the truth. It’s possible to be honest without being brutally honest.
   • Communication is extremely important to overthinkers, so don’t shy away from telling them how you feel or what you think. So long as you’re honest, they’ll respect it.

[Edit]Choose your words carefully.

1. Overthinkers can latch on to tiny things, so speak with compassion. Your partner may not take it all that well if you poke fun at them or crack a joke at their expense. Even if you’re just trying to be playful or throw some witty banter their way, it may backfire. It’s okay to be sarcastic or have fun, just be mindful of what you say.^[4]
   
   • Overthinkers get a bad wrap for being sensitive or focusing on what’s going wrong instead of what’s going right. Being with an overthinker is great if you value vulnerability and want a partner who will support and treasure you.

[Edit]Give them compliments and praise.

1. Making an overthinker feel valued can alleviate a lot of their fears. As an overthinker, your partner may convince themselves that they’re doing something wrong, or screwing things up. Do everything you can to make your partner feel loved, supported, and powerful. If they’re anxious about something, let them know they’ve got a solid partner who will be there for them.^[5]
   
   • Saying things like “I love that outfit!” or, “You know, you really have beautiful eyes,” can really make an overthinker’s day!

[Edit]Respect their concerns.

1. Acknowledge their worries when they’re reasonable to validate them. If the overthinker in your life is worried about something, recognize that it’s all a part of their process. Acknowledge that it’s reasonable for them to be concerned about something while reminding them that there’s a solution to their problem somewhere. This way, they’ll feel seen and heard, but not like whatever they’re dealing with is insurmountable.^[6]
   
   • For example, if they’re concerned they’re going to lose their job because they lost a major client, you might say, “I totally understand why you’re worried. I get it. I wouldn’t assume the worst yet, though. Besides, you can always get a new gig!”
   • It's always good to talk through someone's fears when they're overthinking. Talking about legitimate fears can lead to a good discussion, while talking about irrational fears can be a good way to offer reassurance.^[7]

[Edit]Check in with your partner regularly.

1. Little emotional check-ins can give them space to express themselves. Once a week or so, ask them if everything is going alright in a super calm and loving way. Even if they say everything’s fine and they move on, keep doing it. These little check-ins are important when it comes to cultivating an open and communicative environment, which is important for an overthinker.^[8]
   
   • For example, you might say, “Hey, are we doing alright? I just want to check in and make sure we’re solid.”
   • Overthinkers tend to keep their worries and concerns to themselves. By creating a little bit of space for them to open up, they’ll eventually learn that it’s okay to say something when something’s on their mind.

[Edit]Be a sounding board for your partner.

1. Asking questions can help an overthinker process how they feel. If they’re being quiet and it’s obvious they’re deep in thought, ask them what’s on their mind. If they express an idea or thought, pepper them with follow-up questions to hear more about where they’re coming from. Your partner will really value your interest in hearing what’s going on in their head.^[9]
   
   • For example, if they tell you that they’re concerned about a friendship ending over a disagreement, you might ask them, “Have you tried talking it out?” or “What caused the fight?”
   • If they bring up that they’re thinking about starting a new hobby, you could ask, “Have you always been interested in this?” or “That sounds neat. How much does it cost to get started?”

[Edit]Take them at their word.

1. Demonstrating trust encourages an overthinker to open up more often. Overthinkers spend a lot of time arriving at their ideas and decisions, so don’t question your partner or doubt their intentions when they share their opinions or plans with them. You don’t have to blindly agree with them, but second-guessing their intent or assuming the worst will encourage them to overthink in the future.^[10]
   

[Edit]Open up to them.

1. Share your thoughts and ideas to grow closer with your partner. Overthinkers tend to be very intellectual and thoughtful. If you want to express your love for them, let them in on whatever’s going on in your head! Whether it’s a passing thought about what kind of future you want, or a silly daydream about a memory you have, let your partner know what you’re feeling and thinking about.^[11]
   
   • This is a key part of being vulnerable. Vulnerability and authenticity go a long way to making an overthinker feel comfortable.
   • If you have a habit of shutting down when something’s bothering you, your partner is going to be prone to thinking you’re upset if you don’t openly share what you’re thinking.

[Edit]Be a perpetual optimist.

1. Overthinkers often lock in on cynical thoughts, so be upbeat. Every yin needs a yang, and a relationship with an overthinker will definitely benefit from some optimism. If you find the love of your life fixating on the downside, try to lift their spirits. Spread positive energy, remind them that things aren’t so bad, and be compassionate.^[12]
   
   • For example, if they’ve got a paper due next week and they keep talking about how bad their grade is going to be, you might say something like, “You always think you’ll fail and you never do. You’re a better writer than you think!”

[Edit]Don’t tell them to stop overthinking.

1. It’s important to remember that they aren’t choosing to overthink. Everybody is different, and it’s key that you understand this is simply how your partner is wired. Telling them to stop overthinking is just going to stress them out, so try to not get frustrated with them if they get lost in a train of thought. Be patient, give them space to work through their feelings when they need it, and enjoy your time with them.^[13]
   

[Edit]How Do I Stop Overthinking In a Relationship?

[Edit]Video

[Edit]References

1. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/decision-making
2. ↑ [v161520_b01]. 2 October 2020.
3. ↑ https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/relationships-and-communication
4. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/communication-in-relationships/
5. ↑ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3432145/
6. ↑ [v161520_b01]. 2 October 2020.
7. ↑ [v160987_b01]. 29 May 2019.
8. ↑ [v161520_b01]. 2 October 2020.
9. ↑ [v160987_b02]. 29 May 2019.
10. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/build-trust/
11. ↑ [v161520_b01]. 2 October 2020.
12. ↑ https://positivepsychology.com/learned-optimism/
13. ↑ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/trust-yourself/202304/4-strategies-to-help-you-halt-overthinking

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