I would classify myself as a consistently nervous person. I get nervous about being late, nervous about being incorrect, and nervous about making the wrong decision.
Fear seems to be a continuous cycle, but it’s not. A month or two ago, as I mindlessly scrolled through my Tumblr feed, I stumbled upon a quote that changed the way I reacted to my irrational fears: “Stay afraid, but do it anyway." One internet search later, and I discovered the quote was from Carrie Fisher. Slight fangirl moment. Since then, I have never viewed my nervousness the same way.
Attending an out-of-state college far has been a dream of mine since I was young. I wanted the opportunity to branch out, to have the chance to meet new people and to leave my little bubble in New Hampshire. This proved to be much more difficult than I anticipated when leaving my friends and family behind became reality. I changed my mind at least a million times when I would choose classes for high school, so choosing a college and a major was nearly impossible for me-- my high school guidance counselor can back me up me on that one. Whoopsies.
Moral of the story: My indecisiveness stemmed from fear. I was haunted with worries about making such a huge decision, especially when the pros and cons lists seemed to perfectly even out. Would going to school in New York be practical? What if I become home sick? Will I be able make any new friends?
I did it anyway. As much as I hesitated to leave my safe bubble, I left. And I’m relieved that I made the choice.
Big, life-altering decisions will evoke nervousness; that type of anxiety is regulated. Some anxiety here and there is common and perfectly normal. Although, sometimes I find myself struggling with anxiety over practically nothing. Before I’d walk into Target, I’d repeat “Stay afraid, but do it anyway” to myself. No matter my anxiety, I went anyway. When I considered skipping a class I had to give a presentation in, I’d repeat “Stay afraid, but do it anyway” to myself and gave that presentation anyway.
So whenever you are nervous or unsure of yourself, remember that facing what frightens you will help you grow. Unless, of course, you’re afraid of serial killers or sharks or something of the like. But that’s not the main point here. The point is, irrational fears and unnecessary anxiety should never stop you from pursuing your goals or aspirations. Train yourself to persist. Always persist. In that manner, you will stay afraid, but you will do it anyway.
