If you're a worry-wort, can you teach yourself to not worry?

1. 94

   cclitgirlposted 12 years ago

   If you're a worry-wort, can you teach yourself to not worry?

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2. 79

   Moon Daisyposted 12 years ago

   I am, and I'm forever trying!  I find that keeping busy generally and doing something that takes your mind off all your worries are the best way, so far.  Tai chi works well for me, it clears my mind.  Some people swear by yoga, swimming or cycling.

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3. 82

   poshcoffeecoposted 12 years ago

   I, like you worry. Something which seems to be as a result of getting older. When I was under forty I never used to worry much. Circumstances, work, things I have no control over cause me anxiety now. I often worry about things which are likely never to happen. How silly is that? I have a tendency with depression which I am sure will not help.
   You can teach yourself not to worry and I find having a strong conversation with myself, like a pep talk helps. Panic attacks and the fear of leaving the house to go to work over the last year or so have been the worst. You just have to push yourself and give yourself reasons why you need to beat this.
   Celebrate the achievement when you conquer small things and it will keep moving you forwards.
   Hope this helps even just a little.

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4. 61

   Eunice Stuhlhoferposted 12 years ago

   It is natural for us to worry as people since we are not in control of many things. But when worry robs us of our joy, health or relationships then it's worth trying something else. Sometimes we can worry that we are worrying.
   
   I was also good at worrying until I started believing and trusting God in every area of my life . .  . even where I thought I could do it on my own. I read the Bible and took it personally and it says 'Do not worry' lots of times. I put my faith into action and let go. That has changed a lot of things in my life.
   
   There are things that one cannot change and those that one can. It's healthier to be concerned about the latter.
   
   I hope this helps.

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5. 52

   michelegoldsteinposted 12 years ago

   I have replaced all my worried or anxious thoughts with gratitude for the positive outcome I desire. It calms and soothes me. (ie. If you are worrying about someones safety, change your thought to gratitude for their safety.)

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6. 77

   Goodpalposted 12 years ago

   Why would anyone live with worries and that too chronically? Worries are just symptoms, not the problems. So, make efforts to solve the underlying issues -- unfinished issues, living with nasty or unpleasant people are two common worry creators.
   
   When you are clear in your mind that you have and are doing everything in your capacity to "clear-up" issues, it gives you emotional freedom from the guilt of not doing your part.
   
   For the rest, follow the advise of michelegoldstein (above). This part needs tolerance, for which faith in god, your won goodness, law of natural justice, larger meaning of life, etc help. It involves accepting the way you are and things are.
   
   Finally, stay in the company of mature, understanding and supportive people to vent out as much as possible.

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