The expression “a thousand thoughts running in my head” is very common. We experience it often under extreme stress. Eyes start jumbling, vision becomes blur, and before finishing the first thought, the next one pops up.

Can we make sense out of it? We can relate this situation to the concept of multi-threading. The brain is phenomenal — processing capacity unmatched. But considering the pattern of thoughts, one can think of this as when a processor is computing multiple threads simultaneously. How does the processor make sense? By maintaining states.

How to maintain states of thoughts

1. Get a writing tool. Pen and paper, notes app, whiteboard. Get something to write on as fast as possible.

2. Start jotting down high level ideas. Try to remember everything from the last 5–10 minutes. Anything that pops up within the first 40–50 seconds are the headlines. Leave blank space below each.

3. Look at each individually and figure out details. Think about examples, possible implications. Abbreviate heavily.

4. Try to link them. There’s a high probability the thoughts will be interrelated.

5. Identify action items. Think in terms of short term action items to plan better.

Thinking is not enough, one must act.

Some of the coolest ideas have come up while under stress. Following this process gives the pleasure of being productive and helps reduce stress.