Why Are We Told Not to Think Too Much? by Adeline Atlas
May 17, 2025
I’m Adeline Atlas, and today, we’re flipping the script on a concept that’s often misunderstood: overthinking. You’ve probably heard it a million times—“Don’t overthink it,” or “Relax, you’re overthinking again.” But I’m here to challenge that narrative. What if overthinking isn’t a flaw? What if it’s a superpower waiting to be unlocked? Today, we’re going to dive into why overthinking might be the key to empowerment and explore the deeper levels of comprehension: Understanding, Overstanding, and Innerstanding. Let’s get started!
Have you ever stopped to question why society discourages us from thinking deeply? Everywhere you turn, you see quotes and advice about “not overthinking,” “relaxing,” or “finding balance.” It’s almost like we’re being conditioned to avoid introspection and contemplation.
But here’s a question for you: Have you ever heard someone complain about under-thinking? Of course not! Nobody walks around saying, “You know what your problem is? You don’t think enough.” So why is it that deep thought—what some call overthinking—is framed as a bad thing?
Could it be because overthinking empowers us? And maybe, just maybe, an empowered, deeply reflective society is unstoppable.
Be Specific With Your Words: Why "Understand" Isn’t Enough
Words shape our thoughts, and our thoughts shape our reality. So let’s take a closer look at the language we use to describe comprehension.
Understanding
The word “understanding” literally means “to stand under.” Think about that for a moment. When you’re under something, you haven’t risen above it. You haven’t fully grasped it. You’re below it, trying to make sense of it.
Isn’t it strange that we use this word to signify comprehension? What if, instead, we embraced a word that better reflects mastery and clarity—overstanding?
Overstanding
Overstanding is the next level. It’s about rising above the surface level of knowledge to see the bigger picture. When you overstand something, you’re not just processing information—you’re connecting the dots, seeing its role in the grand scheme of things, and truly grasping its essence.
Fun fact: “Overstanding” isn’t a new concept. It was once a recognized term, found in dictionaries, but for some reason, it fell out of common use. Why aren’t we using it today, especially when it so perfectly captures what it means to go beyond basic comprehension?
Innerstanding
Then there’s innerstanding—the deepest level of all. Innerstanding isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about intuitive, personal wisdom. It’s what you gain through self-reflection, introspection, and connecting with your inner self. It’s understanding from within, rooted in self-awareness and spiritual clarity.
The Journey: From Understanding to Overstanding to Innerstanding
These three levels—understanding, overstanding, and innerstanding—represent a progression.
Understanding is where we start. We’re learning, observing, and taking in information.
Overstanding is where we rise above. We see the bigger picture, the interconnectedness of knowledge, and how everything fits together.
Innerstanding is the ultimate goal. It’s the wisdom that comes from within, the deep insights that only personal growth and self-awareness can bring.
This journey mirrors our evolution as individuals. It’s about moving from merely “knowing” things to truly embodying wisdom.
Why Overthinking Is Actually a Gift
Now let’s talk about overthinking, which often gets a bad reputation.
Here’s the truth: Overthinking isn’t the problem. The problem is how we think. When done intentionally, overthinking can lead to profound insights, deeper awareness, and transformational growth.
Overthinking as Exploration
Overthinking is often labeled as getting lost in a sea of thoughts. But what if, instead of getting lost, you’re actually exploring? What if you’re diving deep into the realms of your intellect and soul to uncover truths that others overlook?
It’s not about being stuck in thought—it’s about expanding your perspective. Overthinking, when done consciously, is the doorway to overstanding and innerstanding.
How to Harness the Power of Overthinking
Here’s how to turn overthinking into your superpower:
Embrace It
Stop apologizing for thinking deeply. Instead of fighting your thoughts, welcome them. See them as opportunities to dig deeper into your understanding of yourself and the world.
Be Intentional
Overthinking becomes a problem when it’s unfocused. Set an intention for your thoughts. Ask yourself: What am I trying to uncover? What’s the deeper insight I’m seeking?
Write It Down
Capturing your thoughts on paper can help you process them more effectively. Let your pen flow and allow your thoughts to unfold without judgment. Writing turns chaotic thoughts into clear ideas.
Transition to Overstanding
Challenge yourself to rise above surface-level thinking. Look for patterns, connections, and the “why” behind the “what.” This is where overstanding begins.
Tap Into Innerstanding
Reflect on your thoughts through the lens of your intuition and personal wisdom. Ask yourself: What does this mean for me? How does this align with my inner truth?
The Bigger Picture: Thinking as Empowerment
Society may tell you to avoid overthinking, but let’s flip the script. Overthinking is a pathway to empowerment. It’s a tool for unlocking your potential, understanding the complexities of life, and connecting with the essence of your being.
When you embrace overthinking, you:
Move beyond surface-level comprehension.
Unlock the deeper truths that lead to wisdom.
Expand your awareness of yourself and the world.
This isn’t just about thinking—it’s about being. It’s about evolving from someone who simply absorbs knowledge to someone who embodies it.
Your Challenge: Think Deeply, Live Fully
Here’s my challenge for you:
The next time someone tells you to “stop overthinking,” ask yourself: Am I really overthinking, or am I exploring something deeper?
Practice transitioning from understanding to overstanding. Look for the patterns, the why, and the bigger picture.
Reflect on your thoughts through the lens of innerstanding. What do they reveal about your inner truth?
Celebrate your ability to think deeply, because it’s one of the greatest gifts you have. In a world that often settles for simplicity, dare to seek complexity, wisdom, and truth.
Ready to Begin Your Soul Journey?
You can explore the full Soul Game experience in the format that suits you best:
✅ Read the Book – for a deep, reflective reading experience.
✅ Watch the Video Series – for visual learners who prefer guided, engaging content. Start now and reclaim the lost parts of yourself.