We went on a camping trip this summer and I admit that I am not a huge fan of living outdoors for an extended amount of time.
But in the interest of pleasing my family, I loaded up a bag with my clothes, toiletries (I was hoping we would have showers?) and other essential items and carried them out to our car, which I discovered was already quite full of camping gear. After moving our belongings around in a game that seemed to mimic Tetris, we were able to fit it all in and head out.
Imagine if we had decided the only way to be sufficiently prepared was to bring extras of everything. Imagine us trying to load a few extra tents, sleeping bags, double the fire wood, charcoal and all manner of medications, creams, and medical equipment. We wouldn’t have had room to sit comfortably as we made the trip.
Your life is like a road trip. There are many essential items you need to carry with you to be prepared. However, if you are suffering from anxiety, chances are you are overwhelming yourself with all kinds of plans and precautions that you don’t need.
Your anticipation of what might happen is creating fear that is pushing you out, delivering anxiety to your mind, emotions and body.
Here are some tips to unpacking your fears so you have plenty of room to enjoy life’s adventure:
1. Pay Attention
Start by paying attention to what you are thinking about: see how many times your mind suddenly plays the role of fortune teller, giving you a play by play of what might happen to you. Don’t allow these thoughts to cram themselves in your mental and emotional vehicle. No matter what your mind believes, it cannot know the future.
2. Find A Pattern
As you notice your thoughts, are there certain things your mind ruminates about? If you find a pattern, begin to address what your real fear is. Trace your anxiety back to its root so you can begin uncovering why that element of your life leaves you so afraid.
3. Don’t Overpack
In your daily hectic life, only allow your mind to stay in the one moment you are in. My mind will begin plotting ways to avoid any scenarios that might leave me hurt, embarrassed, angry, or vulnerable. However, in exchange for my vigilance, I have lived in constant fear. Life is full of surprises, both welcoming and hard. Take the fear out of the future by embracing the fact that yes, there will be hard times. Don’t overpack- you can obtain the equipment you need when you do face a challenge.
Begin cleaning out your mental vehicle and throw out fears and worries that are preemptive. Give yourself some room so you can enjoy the ride!