How To Use the Power of Overthinking To Your Advantage (3 of 4)

4. You See Rabbit Holes As a Learning Opportunity

Curiosity can easily divert an overthinker. But while this can potentially lead to distraction, when utilized properly, it becomes a strength. Following a thread of interest can lead you to accumulate knowledge across unexpected domains. Because the brain instinctively loops back to past ideas, you’re able to make creative connections between topics that seem, on the surface, unrelated. These interactions often lead to insight that others miss. In addition, you have a tendency to stick with problems far longer than others. You keep flipping things around in your head even after they’ve given up or moved on.  This persistence means you develop a deeper understanding of the issue and come up with breakthrough solutions over time.

5. You See Broken Systems Others Don’t

Overthinkers aren’t merely concerned with evaluating themselves; they feel the need to evaluate everything around them. You are quick to identify inefficiencies, gaps, and design flaws that others overlook. “How could this work better?” is your mantra. As a result, you are a natural optimizer. You have the keen ability to redesign workflows, rethink how meetings are structured, and update obsolete systems. You notice friction points in everyday life and imagine better alternatives. These are traits that are required of a leader.