My name is anxiety.
If we’ve met, we’re probably lifelong friends. If we’re just now meeting, you’re going to get to know me very well. I come into your life at the most unexpected and inconvenient times. I create mountains out of molehills and ruin many situations. I come in many forms, some worse than others.
It’s the first day of class. Here I am. I’ll make you so nervous your stomach will ache. You will worry about who will be in each class. I’ll make you worry about where to sit. Is the front too close? Is the back too far away like you don't care? I’ll keep you up the entire night before worrying about every single aspect of the following day. You’ll be on edge all day and won’t be able to eat a thing. Have a great first day.
I’m on every single date. Whether you just met this person or you have known them for quite some time, I will make you over-analyze the date that hasn’t even happened yet. I’ll cause you to think the worst. I’ll force you to stress over your clothes and what the two of you will talk about. You’ll be ready so early and the time left waiting will be used just to worry and be nervous more. And then I’ll make you think they won’t ever come pick you up or will cancel the date. You’re welcome.
Have a presentation in a class tomorrow? Don’t worry I’ll stay up with you while you check over and over if you’ve covered all of the material. I’ll make sure you fret constantly over whether or not your presentation is even good enough. When the time comes for you to present, I’ll make sure your heart rate picks up drastically and your palms are clammy. If you’re lucky I’ll even make your face turn red as soon as you begin your presentation! Good luck.
Don’t ever worry about being late, or even on time for that matter. You will always be early. Whether you’re just going to class or you’re meeting for an interview, I’ll make sure you start getting ready early so you can arrive extra early. During your drive there, I’ll be right next to you. See that cop behind you? I’ll drive you crazy with thoughts of being pulled over. You’ll constantly check your speed and position in the lane. Better than being late, right?
So many people allow me to control their every move. I consume their lives and dictate their actions. I’m not a joke. I’m a serious matter.
Anxiety controls so many people around us. It’s not always visible, but it definitely takes a toll on those affected by it. Anxiety can be conquered but it takes some time and definitely a lot of effort. Anxiety affects simple actions such as ordering food or doing anything alone. Anxiety comes in many different forms and at many different levels of severity. If you’re like me, it’s more toward the mild range. But if you know me, you know how much it affects me and holds me back in certain aspects of my life.
Take a step back. Breathe. Gather yourself. Do it.
Whatever it is: a speech; a presentation; meeting someone; the first day of class; or trying something new, such as skiing or snowboarding. Do it wholeheartedly. Your anxiety will always be with you but it doesn’t have to control your thoughts and decisions. You’re more than what your anxiety limits you to. Go be great!
