10 Ways to Manage Your Fears and Anxiety
We all have fears in life. And they are part of being human. Looking at the good side, fear is our best friend who is always there to save us from potential threats. For instance, our fear of snake protects us from actually being bitten by a venomous creature. But too much fear can be harmful as it prevents us from taking positive risks and opportunities, doing what we want, and being the best we can be.
It’s okay to be fearful as long as it is manageable. If you have issues dealing with your fears and anxiety, here are the best strategies to incorporate in your daily life:
1. Look at the glass half full instead of half empty. Sometimes, we tend to aggravate our fears with our thoughts. If you stick to what is positive, you are less likely to be affected by fears. You need to look at the glass half full instead of half empty. For instance, instead of worrying and fearing that you might lose your job, picture yourself being promoted to your dream position. Remember, your thoughts fuel your actions!
2. Accept the fact that you have fears. Constantly denying your fears and anxieties will do you no good. You have to accept the fact that, just like anyone else, you also have qualms, worries and reservations. Being positive doesn’t mean you have to get away from the negative ones. Always spare a moment to feel sad, worried, fearful, or anxious. As mentioned, they are a critical part of being human. The more you push them away, the more they will overwhelm you.
3. Be kind to yourself. The first person to understand you should be no other than yourself. Reconnect with the child within you. Determine his strengths and weaknesses. Pamper him and make him feel loved and appreciated. Spend time with yourself doing things that relax you.
4. Take action to combat your fears. What do you usually do in times of difficult situations? Do you run away from them? Do you face them with anger? Do you cry? Think about the best ways to confront your fears and anxieties. A professional therapist can help you formulate strategies to observe when faced with challenging events or situations.
5. Don’t face your fears alone. Avoid being with people who just make you more fearful. Seek comfort and support from your loved ones and friends who understand what you are going through. If you can’t find someone to confide with, look for a professional therapist who will listen to you without making any judgement.
6. Assess your fears and anxiety triggers. It can be helpful to write down all your fears and worries, and all the things that upset you. When you know what they are, you become more capable of overcoming them!
7. Be mindful. Amidst your busy schedule, take a few minutes to relax and de-stress your mind and body. While on a bus for instance, just close your eyes and visualise yourself being in a peaceful, tranquil place. Slowly drop your worries and anxieties, and feel your heartbeat slowing down. Mindful meditation is one proven strategy to manage fears and anxiety.
8. Realise how blessed you are. When you are overwhelmed by your fears and anxieties, you forget the fact that you are blessed. As a result, you become more fearful and soon, depressed. Before you go to bed at night, try writing down at least three of the best things that happened in your day. The next day, expect to feel refreshed and optimistic! Make this a daily habit and you will see how it can greatly improve your quality of life.
9. Shift to a healthier lifestyle. Your daily routine affects how you think. So don’t spend lots of time on the couch eating and drinking, and watching TV. Get up and exercise! Attend a yoga class, eat healthy, sleep on time, avoid alcohol and cigarettes, and de-stress regularly!
10. Focus on your most important values. Instead of going crazy over the things that make you scared and anxious, give more focus on preserving and improving the values and principles you hold on to. Whether it is your love for family, education, hard work, compassion, etc – they deserve a bigger space in your mind than those uncanny thoughts.
Dear Readers,
Have you ever experienced being overwhelmed with fears and anxiety? What did you do to overcome them?
Share your comments below.
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