Worry can get into all the crevices of our lives. We worry about our jobs, our kids, our relationships, money, and a million other things every single day.
Once worry sets in and takes over, we can find ourselves paralyzed, ensuring things don’t get done. It doesn’t have to be this way. We can take charge of the worry with a concentrated effort.
To change your life and stop worrying, ask yourself these quick questions:
What Are You Really Worried About?
Many times, worry is a mask for something else entirely. Get specific. What exactly are you worried about. Name it. Consider also, what fear or anxiety is behind this. Worry can inflate our fears and concerns to monstrous proportions. Consider how many things you have worried about that actually did occur. Once you have a clear understanding of what the real issue is, it’s easier to address the problem and dissolve the worry completely.
Is This Something I Can Control?
We’re very good at worrying about something we can’t change. Seriously, what difference does it make if it snows tomorrow? Nothing we do can keep the flakes from falling. Accept that sometimes you’re just going to have to go with the flow and adapt to the circumstances. You could consider alternatives in the event something happens – that is different. If worrying won’t change it, then take worry out of the sequence.
Does this Affect Me Today?
Worries about the future can really derail your life today. Are you worried about something far off? Step back and ask yourself “Is there something I can do today that will prevent this outcome tomorrow?” If so, now you have a plan of action. Get to it!
Am I Spending Too Much Time?
Are you obsessing over this fear? Do you find yourself constantly circling back to the same concern over and over? It’s time to break the cycle. Consider talking to someone, such as a good friend or even a counselor or trained professional, to help you break out of this vicious cycle.
Have I Prayed About It?
In his book “Less Fret, More Faith”, Max Lucado shares that “worry is the interest we pay on the prayerless life.” Take your worries to God. Be specific. The act of prayer moves us from a spirit of worry and concern to a spirit of gratitude.
When you look honestly at the worry, seeing it for what it truly is and how it is holding you, hostage, you’ll find it’s easy to get your thoughts back on track. Worry becomes a thing of the past when we’re mindful of it, and don’t let it become obsessive. Imagine the difference a life without so much worry will make. Then take these steps to bring peace into your life