Worrying is something that every person does on a daily basis. Whether it’s worrying about homework, about a relationship that is strained, a relative that is currently sick, or even if the basketball team you love is going to make it into the playoffs. Why must we do this stress inducing activity? What compels our mind to run at a speed that is uncontrollable and gives us wrinkles in our 30’s? I’m here to tell you today that you can put a stop to worrying on a daily basis.
First let’s talk about the consequences of worrying too much. Not only does it induce stress which causes headaches but it can also cause ulcers, insomnia, and depression among other things according to C.S. Clarke. From my experience (and personal worry woes) I have come to realize that a lot of my attitude about worrying comes from a lack of self-confidence. Not the kind of self-confidence that comes from the way you look, but the kind that motivates you to perform; to act and carry out your responsibilities on a daily basis. For me, if I wake up and it seems like it is going to be a great day, it usually is. If I wake up and the day does not get off to a great start, my whole day is usually ruined and this is when I begin to worry. I have come up with a few ways to beat the worry thoughts and conquer the day, even if it doesn’t get off to a great start. Dale Carnegie also has great tips on how to stop worrying (and what causes it). If you follow my advice (and Dale’s) you can be worry free in no time at all.
1. Stretch. That’s it. If you stretch when you wake up (and I’m not just talking about putting your arms over your head) then you will immediately feel less stressed about the day ahead. When I stretch I like to do toe touches, arm circles, and even a few jumping jacks in the morning. This gets your blood flowing and it helps put you in a better mindset because it energizes you.
2. Write down everything. Well, maybe not everything. Get a notebook or day planner and write down things that are important. On Sunday night, I plan out my week by writing down assignments that are due, appointments, and other things that need to be done. Since it’s written down, I can’t forget it which causes less worry. Leave yourself notes around the house like I do (dry erase boards work great) so you remember to do everything you need to do.
3. Meditate. Meditation isn’t just for Buddhists. I take just five minutes a day to clear my mind. Morning or evening is the perfect time because it can clear your mind for the day or clear your mind so you can sleep. By letting go of your worries (even simple ones) you will feel more relaxed and you can sleep better.
I also eat well and exercise five times a week which is proven to help with stress levels. Trust me, doing small things to help yourself really does work in the long run. It’s easy to do the three things that I listed. I used to worry daily; I was even on medication. Now I can happily say that I no longer worry about things that are out of my control because I have changed my lifestyle for the better.
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