Loved my conversation with Andrew Sewell from Overthinkers.
We talked about self-awareness and that tipping point between reflection and rumination, and the challenges when rumination and overthinking prevents you from moving forward and reaching your potential. Here are my top takeaways
Self-awareness means knowing yourself deeply: According to Andrew, self-awareness goes beyond simply knowing your strengths and weaknesses. It involves understanding the kind of environment in which you thrive, how you are perceived by others, and even unconscious patterns of thinking and behaviour.
Overthinking and rumination can hinder self-awareness: Andrew, as a recovering overthinker, acknowledges that overthinking can impede self-awareness. He constantly found himself overanalysing situations and felt it was a major source of stress. By changing his relationship with his thoughts, he was able to develop a healthier mindset.
Self-awareness often emerges as an early focus in coaching: In Andrew’s coaching practice, self-awareness is often the starting point. Whether working with individuals or leadership teams, understanding why individuals get in their own way and helping them identify their values and strengths is a crucial aspect of the coaching process.
Narcissism and self-awareness: Andrew highlights that true narcissists often lack self-awareness, as their behaviours are driven by their inherent need for self-importance. While bullies may exhibit a range of motivations, true narcissists are unlikely to engage in self-reflection.
The limits of leadership without self-awareness: While some leaders can succeed for a time without self-awareness, relying on confidence, decisiveness, and ambition, they often hit a ceiling of stress or find themselves unable to progress further in their organisations. This moment of reckoning can serve as a wake-up call to the importance of self-awareness in leadership growth.
Self-awareness is a continuous journey: Andrew’s own recovery from overthinking and his ongoing work with clients demonstrate that self-awareness is a lifelong journey. While progress can be made to develop a healthier relationship with one’s thoughts and ultimately enhance self-awareness, it requires ongoing effort and commitment.
I hope you benefit from Andrew’s wisdom and our discussion helps you to take control of your overthinking.
