Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a good guide to answer the question “Why does the mind keep thinking?”
1. The pressure of earning a living
2. The pressure of ensuring “safety & security”
3. The pressure of pursuing pleasure and love
4. The pressure of seeking self-esteem
5. The pressure of attaining Self-actualization / Enlightenment / Salvation / Liberation / Transcendence / Moksha / Nirvana
Know Thyself 