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anx•i•e•ty

1. A state of uneasiness, uncertainty, and apprehension, as about future uncertainties – realistic or fantasized.
2. Eager, often agitated desire.

Sometimes anxiety can flare out of the blue, or in direct response to a thought or circumstance. Naturally, we want to get as far away from it as possible – which just gets us anxious about feeling anxious. What if we welcomed it when it showed up?

Danish philosopher Sören Kierkegaard believed that anxiety was actually a valuable tool (not an obstacle) for shaping our ideal lives. He taught that the remedy for anxiety is “to choose to be the self which one truly is.”

Anxiety is a reminder to head home to your real self.

Three Ways To Use Anxiety As a Tool

1. Notice it. When you get the tummy trembles, struggle to catch your breath, or feel tangled in mind fuzz – just stop and notice. It’s ideal to be curious, rather than judgmental in your noticing. Don’t fight it. A simple “Hmmm, I’m feeling anxious”, will keep you level.
2. Respect it. When anxiety knocks, ask it, “What can I do for you?”. You might get some surprising requests. Maybe your anxiety wants to go for a walk, sketch out a new plan, make a confession, or laugh hysterically. Or maybe it wants to smash plates, write a nasty letter, or holler hysterically.
3. Make a choice. Which response to your anxiety would support the true you? Would laughing or plate-smashing expand or contract your being? Either might melt the jitters. Either way…

Anxiety is a road sign. You’re in the driver’s seat. Navigate by the light of your truth.