The phrase "occurred to" is often used to describe a sudden realization or idea. However, there are many other ways to express this concept. One alternative is "dawned on," which suggests that the idea slowly became clear over time. Another option is "struck," which emphasizes the sudden and unexpected nature of the realization. "Entered my mind" is a more straightforward option that simply describes the idea coming to one's awareness. Other synonyms might include "clicked," "hit me," "flashed," or "came to light." Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the context of the situation and the tone that the writer wants to convey.