Challenge of the Week: Do the Opposite of What Your Anxiety Wants You to Do
I challenge you to do one thing out of your comfort zone this week, even if your anxiety is kicking and screaming "no!" at you.
It helps me to give my anxiety a name and imagine my anxiety as a little caricature. Take your anxiety by the hand and imagine yourself dragging it along with you like a toddler throwing a tantrum. Tell it "Okay, if you want to kick and scream go ahead, but I am continuing forward whether you like it or not!".
Below is my caricature of anxiety!
Lately, I've really been pushing myself to not listen to the annoying anxiety voice inside my head and continue to do something out of my norm. While it may not be the most comfortable in the moment, I leave the situation with more proof that I CAN do whatever I want despite my anxious thoughts and panic attacks. And yes, there have been times where I have not "succeeded" and had a panic attack. However, I know I tried and now I know what to do differently the next time! The most important thing is to always try and get back on the horse. Always get back on the horse.
Remember - you can be scared and still be BRAVE. You do not have to pick one or the other.