So I’ll tell you what helped me to conquer my anxiety, as well as help tackle this overly analytical brain of mine. What I did was get into meditation. And not just like half-way, give it a try, type of thing. I mean I really got into it. And got good at it too. Now, you might be thinking the same thing I did at first, “Ehh that sounds kinda stupid.” or “Naw that doesn’t really sound like it’s for me..” But seriously man, it has helped me so much in several aspects of my life. It taught me probably the most critical skill I’ve ever learned, to stop those damn stray thoughts from running wild in my head.

Whenever I used to find myself in a situation that got me nervous (like being around females) my stray thoughts would completely undermine my natural thinking. When comfortable, I’m a pretty funny guy with a very quick wit. But when nervous, I would try so hard to think of ‘the right thing’ to say, and try so hard to reshape and articulate my thoughts (my analytical side in action) that I would clam up and not say anything altogether. I was seriously one of the quietest kids in high school.

I’m in college now and I’m one of the most outspoken people in my classes. And it basically can all be attributed to the fact that I’ve learned put a reign on my thinking. I can tell without knowing you that you are certainly an intelligent person, you think so much that you over-think. Like you said this is a great quality in certain situations, but it becomes your own worst enemy in others.

I’m certainly no professional, but I think your best bet is to try what I suggested. Find some good info on the methodologies of meditation. Personally I focused on directly on teachings from the eastern religions considering they have basically mastered the art form. When I first started getting the hang of it, I began to realize how little governance I actually had over my thoughts, I mean I was shocked at the lack of control.

What I truly realized was, you could be the most intelligent person in the world in every respect; but if you can’t learn to seize control over your mind, it will gladly grab the controls itself in whatever area you allow it to.

Obviously I know that just because meditation has worked great for me, doesn’t mean it would for everyone. But I really do think you somehow need to assert control over those rogue thoughts that are holding you back. Because you do have the ability buried somewhere in there, everyone does, you just need to engage in a bit of self discovery to unlock it.

Sorry that turned out to be so long, it’s not that I just LOVE hearing myself talk (or type, as it were) but I just truly feel for you; as someone who has been there and still is on occasion. I really hope my suggestion helps you out, if even a little. Good luck bro, sincerely.

You have to be real when you want something real. And you have to be in the moment with people to really connect, which means leaving your inner worry-wart at the door. :)

I caught myself for being ridiculous — and reminded myself to just relax, and enjoy tomorrow’s date.

I guess my answer is: just try to remind yourself NOT to overthink — you can’t read someone else’s mind!