Episode 207

207 - Transforming Overthinking With A New Soundtrack

207 - Transforming Overthinking With A New Soundtrack

In today’s episode, we explore John Acuff’s Soundtracks: A Surprising Solution to Overthinking. Acuff dives into the idea that we are the stories we tell ourselves, and how these internal "soundtracks" can either propel us forward or hold us back. We discuss the importance of recognizing negative soundtracks, retiring them, and replacing them with positive ones. Whether it’s perfectionism or fear of failure, Acuff’s advice offers practical steps to stop overthinking and start achieving your goals.

Identifying Broken Soundtracks: Acuff explains how negative soundtracks are often so ingrained in our minds that we don’t even notice them. We explore how to identify these self-sabotaging thoughts and why they are so destructive.

Neuroplasticity and the Power to Change: A key concept in Soundtracks is neuroplasticity—the idea that our brains are capable of change at any age. This gives us the ability to rewrite our mental playlists and adopt more positive beliefs.

Taking Action to Overcome Overthinking: The episode highlights how taking even the smallest action can disrupt the cycle of overthinking. By focusing on what we can do, rather than what we fear, we build confidence and momentum.

Takeaways:
Your thoughts shape your actions: Negative soundtracks can hold you back, but recognizing and replacing them is key to overcoming overthinking.
Neuroplasticity empowers change: It’s never too late to rewire your brain and adopt healthier thought patterns.
Action disrupts overthinking: Start small, take action, and watch your confidence grow.

https://startwithsmallsteps.com/207-transforming-overthinking-with-a-new-soundtrack/

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Email the podcast at jill@startwithsmallsteps.com

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Start with Small Steps
Thoughtful personal growth through small, realistic steps you can use in everyday life.

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About your host

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Jill McKinley

I’m Jill from the Northwoods. Professionally, I work in Health IT, where I untangle complex systems and help people use technology more effectively. But at heart, I’m a curious lifelong learner—always exploring how things work, why people grow the way they do, and how even the smallest steps can spark real transformation. That curiosity fuels everything I do, from problem-solving at work to sharing insights through my creative projects.

My journey wasn’t always easy. Growing up, I faced a rough childhood, and books became my lifeline. They introduced me to voices of ancient wisdom, modern psychology, and the natural world around me. Those pages taught me resilience, gave me perspective, and helped me see that wisdom is everywhere—waiting to be noticed, gathered, and shared.