Our anxiety does not come from thinking about the future, but
from wanting to control it.
― Kahlil GibranAnxiety tends to be about the future. It is the “what ifs”. “What
if I make a fool of myself?” “What if something goes wrong?”
“What if I am alone for the rest of my life?” “What if we have an
accident.?” The hard truth is many of our “what if” scenarios
are real possibilities. S**t happens. As a consummate worrier, I
assure you, no amount of hand wringing can influence the outcome.
What we can do is hope for the best, plan, or prep for the
worst. Ask: “What is the worst that can happen?” You might be
embarrassed, become a social outcast, or yes, you could die.
Anxiety could also be a fear of failure or even fear of success.
Learn to self soothe, take long slow deep breaths. Recite the
Serenity Prayer. Unless it is life threatening or debilitating, use
meditation in lieu of medication.