I wish I could say that I have never worried or have never been anxious. With age, I can confidently say it happens less but it still shows up at times! As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I know with full conviction that worrying about something does not prevent what will happen in the future. So that time, energy, and anxiety is just wasted!
What I have learned is, we can’t help those anxious thoughts from entering our mind, but we do have a say in what we do with them! Let me explain: our unconscious mind brings forth our thoughts of concern. We have no control over that happening. We do have control of whether we allow ourselves to stay focused on that concern, begin worrying about what MIGHT happen and become anxious. What I recommend is to acknowledge the thought/concern. You know it is on your mind, but allow it to float past, just like a cloud in the sky. It will drift back into your unconscious. As you acknowledge the thought, bring yourself back into focus on what is right in front of you. What were you doing? What do you see? Refocus on the present!
As a guideline, when we worry about the past, it causes depression. When we worry about the future, it causes anxiety. Instead, focus on the present-on what is right in front of you. By bringing your attention to the present, we are then given the opportunity to do something rather than worry!
While we all encounter worry, depression and anxiety, we all have a choice on whether we let them take over our mind or acknowledge them and go on about the business of living in the present!
May you find yourself focusing on the present as you journey along the path of life!