If my thoughts start rambling and I catch myself, I stop and assign a time to think more on a topic, if more thinking is warranted.
I might stop myself in the present thought process, assign a time of 7-8 p.m. and then move on to another topic. At 7p.m. it may or may not make sense for me to give the topic further time/energy.
I have done this long enough now, my brain rarely gets carried away anymore.
It's not exactly the same as you are relating, neodk, but it's the closest thing I've dealt with and I'd wanted to support you. You are very supportive to others.
I am hoping a great job offer comes through for you.

WC