I want to start by saying thank you. When the alarm goes off in the morning, although you already have me awake, it’s time to go hop on the scale and see if that pizza I ate the night before was really worth it. After I see the number and decide whether or not I’m going to let you going to ruin my day, it’s time to get dressed. Maybe since I don’t have much to do for the day I’ll just throw on sweats and a t-shirt, but there you are again reminding me that everywhere I go there are people to judge what I’m wearing. I put on a nice dress and make sure to spend extra time perfecting my hair and makeup. I know in the back of my mind I have pretty much nothing to do all day, I could spend the day just relaxing if I wanted, but the entire time I am getting ready you are making a schedule for me of all the things I need to get done before the day is over. As the day goes on and I’m running around town doing my anonymous tasks, you never leave my side. Simple daily conversations are overanalyzed. You make me wonder what the other person is thinking, if I said the right thing, or should I have just not said anything at all. As much as I am worrying, you remind me to keep smiling because I am still surrounded by people ready to judge. What am I worrying about? Anything and everything. I am worrying about today, tomorrow, and the rest of my life. You make a simple day turn into a great challenge. So what do I have to thank you for?

Thank you for making me a stronger person.

You have given me some of my weakest days, days in which I didn’t think I would possibly make it through. But because of it, I have come out stronger.

Thank you for showing me who the most important people in my life are

Through thick and thin, the people who truly care stick around no matter what. Because of you I have formed some of my closest bonds with friends and family members.

Thank you for challenging me

You challenge me in everything that I do, which makes small accomplishments in life feel that much greater. I love when I know I have overcome you and your obstacles you set up for me.

Thank you for teaching me

Because of you I have had to learn some of my hardest life lessons. You have taught me how to let the little things go that don’t matter. You have taught me how to better handle stress. And most importantly, you have taught me why this life is worth living.

So thank you to my anxious mind. If it weren’t for you, I would not be the person I am today.