Reflection vs. Rumination.
Ahh, the age old debate, is it helpful reflection or unhelpful rumination? Do you ever find yourself thinking A LOT about something? Maybe it was something you said or did, didn’t do, or something that happened. Let’s start with definitions. Reflection is defined as, “serious thought or consideration; mirroring.” The definition of rumination is, “a deep or considered thought about something.” Sounds pretty similar doesn’t it? In the psychological and mental health sphere, rumination is considered to be repetitive over thinking about negative thoughts, feelings, experiences and the distress that can cause. Using that definition, there is a big difference between reflection and rumination, however the line between them can be gray.
Many describe the experience of ruminating as compulsive and obsessive, thinking about the same thoughts, feelings, experiences, and conversations over and over again with no solution or relief. That is problematic for your mental health and wellbeing. Rumination can affect your ability to focus, stay present, socialize, energy levels (all that thinking costs a lot of brain power) and your self-confidence. Rumination is also a psychological stressor and remember, psychological stressors cause physiological stress responses. Reflection on the other hand, is helpful. It is reflection that allows us to learn from our experiences and grow. It helps us do things differently to achieve the results we are looking for. To simplify, rumination is stressful and keeps you stuck in the past, while reflection is the process of actively learning from the past and applying it to your current reality. Rumination often comes with guilt, shame, and perfectionism. Reflection often comes with peace, closure, and moving forward. While reflection is ultimately the way to go, it is also not something that needs to be happening at all times. Mindfulness in the present moment is also incredibly valuable. Life only really happens in the current moment after all.
Questions to ponder.
What is the difference between reflection and rumination within yourself?
How can you find a balance between reflection and staying present?
What boundaries do you need in place to protect reflection from turning into rumination?
