Rumination
Rumination is the tendency to dwell passively and repetitively on your distress — its causes, meanings and consequences — going over the same thoughts again and again without moving toward any solution.
Full definition of Rumination →:: COMPARE ::
RuminationvsReflection
The short answer
Reflection is a fairly neutral, active look at yourself aimed at understanding and moving forward. Rumination is passive, negative and circular — the same distressing thoughts on repeat, with no exit. Same raw material; opposite outcome.
Side by side
| Aspect | Rumination | Reflection |
|---|---|---|
| Direction | Circular | Forward |
| Tone | Negative, stuck | Curious, open |
| Leads to | More distress | Understanding |
| Question | 'Why do I feel this?' | 'What can I learn / do?' |
What each one means
Reflection
The contrast above sets out how Reflection differs from Rumination on the points that actually matter.