A new study reveals that some 38% of people report feeling worried on a daily basis (..and I dare to say that I think the number is probably even higher for moms)!
Habitual fear and stress weaken your ability to reason and prepare for obstacles. Worrying often makes it difficult to get a good night’s sleep, which erodes your ability to focus, avoid becoming ill or have an accident.
Worrying puts stress on relationships and decreases overall quality of life.
To enjoy our lives, we need to be fully present in the moment. Dinners and celebrations with friends and family can feel hijacked if we’re thinking about ways things might go wrong.
If you worry too much, then try these 4 strategies:
1. Determine which worries are helpful – This is critical! Worries can fall into one of two categories: “productive” and “unproductive.” Productive concerns help you take action and solve problems. Unproductive fears are obstructive and often start with “what if…?” Make a list of all your worries, discard the unproductive ones, then brainstorm goals and step-by-step solutions for each productive concern. Consult experts or loved ones for feedback, insights and help.
2. Schedule time to worry – Set aside a half-hour “worry appointment” every day to avoid stress when you’re feeling relaxed or vulnerable. Postpone unproductive thoughts by writing them down and saving them for the scheduled time.
3. Train yourself to accept “uncertainty” – When worries arise, label them as thoughts – not facts. Learn to identify tension in your body. When you feel stressed, concentrate on breathing, relax your forehead, let your shoulders drop and loosen your grip.
4. Be mindful – Plan time to live in the moment, notice all your senses and feel grateful. Do this during a routine activity like bathing, going for a walk or having a meal. If your mind wanders, don’t judge yourself. Simply return to the present.
Remember these strategies, next time you notice yourself worrying. See what works for you and what doesn’t. I’d love to hear your experience or any other tips you may have to worry less.
