Life Quote by Eric Maisel
““Stress causes the greatest number of doctors' visits annually. Yet we haven't noticed well enough that the issue is not just what is stressing us but also how poorly we are built to deal with that stress. We ask our experimental brain to work overtime to decide what line will sell next season, whether our son is drinking just a lot or has become an alcoholic, whether this passing feeling means that the universe has a purpose or that our medication is kicking in, where we should look to heal the hole in our heart and make life feel worthwhile . . . and everything else. Not knowing what else to do, we set our brain racing off, whether or not it has good brakes, whether or not it is equal to the task, and whether or not the task is reasonable. The smarter we are, the more likely we will use our brain in these ways, and the more painful pressure we are likely to produce.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Power of Meaning by Emily Esfahani Smith, 2017
Stress overwhelms us because we overuse our analytical mind for existential and trivial problems, leading to mental overload and health issues.
In simple terms: Overthinking causes stress and health problems.
Key Takeaway
Limit mental overload, seek balance.
Themes
stress
mental health
overthinking
balance
Mood
anxious
reflective
motivational
Type
advice
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- workplace decisions
- family concerns
- personal health
- life purpose
- medication effects
Key Concepts
cognitive overload
existential anxiety
psychological resilience
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you recognize when your mind is overworking?
- What practices help you give your brain proper “brakes”?
A Different Perspective
Overanalysis can also lead to insight and creative solutions if managed.
