ARE U OVER-RATIONALIZING?
Complex reasoning, is a process of using convoluted or excessively rationalized thinking patterns to support a particular belief or behavior.
Overthinking and Rumination
When individuals engage in complex reasoning to justify a belief or behavior, they may become stuck in a cycle of over-analysis and self-doubt. This can lead to excessive worrying, anxiety, and stress, which can negatively impact both mental and physical health.
To avoid this outcome, it is important to recognize when we are engaging in mental gymnastics and to take a step back from our thoughts. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can help individuals cultivate a sense of presence and awareness, which can reduce the tendency towards overthinking and rumination.
Cognitive Biases and Selective Attention
Complex reasoning can also lead to cognitive biases or selective attention, where individuals only focus on information that supports their belief or behavior while ignoring contradictory evidence.
This can lead to distorted thinking patterns and confirmation bias, where individuals only seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs.
To avoid this outcome, it is important to actively seek out diverse perspectives and information when faced with a complex issue. By considering a variety of factors and viewpoints, individuals can develop a more well-rounded understanding of the situation and avoid cognitive biases.
Avoiding Responsibility
Another way that comlpex reasoning can hurt us is by providing a way to avoid taking responsibility for our actions.
When individuals engage in complex reasoning to justify a belief or behavior, they may use this as a way to shift blame onto others or external factors, rather than taking responsibility for their own actions and accepting the role they played in the situation.
To avoid this outcome, it is important to take responsibility for our own choices and behaviors. It can hurt to admit you made a mistake, but that is the only way you can learn and put your best foot forward.
Complex reasoning are often used to protect our ego and self esteem when deep-down we know we were wrong. Accept it and improve.
Interpersonal Conflict
Complex reasoning can also lead to interpersonal conflict by interfering with communication, relationships, and problem-solving abilities.
During heated arguments our minds run wild trying to say anything to “win” the argument, rather than trying to better understand each other.
It’s hard to compromise or find solutions when you’re too busy justifying your actions and mistakes. We use convoluted thinking to defend ourselves, or dismiss others perspectives, only leading to more misunderstandings and conflict.
It’s essential to be honest with yourself if you want to build healthy and constructive relationships.
Actions speak louder than words, so keep words to a minimum. Be sincere when you apologize or admit you were wrong, but don’t get caught in the trap of over-explaining yourself to look better. Just be better.
Hurting Your Happiness
In many ways, complex reasoning can block us from happiness and enjoying life more.
Thinking isn’t enough to find happiness all by itself. If you’re stuck trying to find the right “happy thoughts,” you’ll always be one step away from experiencing real fulfillment in life. You need to be productive and act on your values to build real purpose and meaning.
Positive thinking won’t amount to anything if it doesn’t lead to positive action, such as exercise, socializing, volunteering, or pursuing hobbies and interests.
Excessive thinking can also distract you from what really matters. Following your intuition or gut instinct can lead to better choices and decision-making rather than a carefully calculated “costs vs. benefits” analysis.
