I love this quote:
“The truth is we are constantly trying to fix and improve things that are not directly in our control. The more we try, the more exhausted and helpless we feel” ~Orly Levy
In Part One, I discussed interrupting the habit by being mindful and fully present in the moment. In being mindful of the patterns of your emotions, you are better able to interrupt any thoughts of anxiousness. Focus on what you are doing at that moment and not the thoughts racing through your subconscious mind.
Here is Part Two of Three ways to help calm your anxious thoughts.
Affirm a Different Narrative
The second technique is to challenge the initial thought that caused your anxious thoughts. When I made the choice to focus on entrepreneurship and the career path I desired, more anxious thoughts began to appear. The first step was to find out exactly why they were coming up. By observing my thoughts, I discovered that most of them were either about fearing uncertainty or lacking money.
I was afraid because so many things were changing around me. I also thought that leaving the corporate world would be difficult financially. The reason for that belief was that most people around me made money from their corporate job and the ones that tried to venture out struggled a lot. Many eventually returning to the corporate world for survival.
The second step was to gently challenge the beliefs that caused my anxious thinking. I realized I needed to be gentle with myself with a lot of soothing and comforting. I started by saying affirmations such as “I am safe.” “It is safe for me to follow my heart.” “Everything will be fine.”
Those affirmations helped my tremendously. I had to remind myself that I am safe even in the face of uncertainty.
Then, I challenged the original narrative I had about struggling entrepreneurs by finding examples of successful entrepreneurs. I read about them, created vision boards, watched their podcasts or TEDx, and kept affirming boldly that it is possible to be financially stable and prosperous when you operate your own business.
To make this practice successful, find out the REAL causes behind your worrying patterns. Take time to meditate to notice what type of thought comes up frequently when you are worrying. Lying to yourself about what makes you afraid will only add fuel to the fire.
Then, be gentle with yourself when anxious thoughts come up. Say affirmations that feel good for you and bring you comfort and align with your chosen life path. They also must challenge the initial belief you are trying to end. You will create positive, long-lasting, and empowering thought patterns by repeating affirmations as much as possible. In my case, after a while, those affirmations became almost a reflex when my anxious thoughts would try to creep back in.
Try this technique as much as possible daily and you will notice other benefits such as a reduction of your stress level!!
Want to work with a wellness coach who can help you deal with your anxiety? Schedule a call with me now! Limited slots available!!