The Other Side of Fear: How Anxiety Can Be Your Ally
Anxiety…… It’s a word that conjures feelings of unease, dread, and a racing heart. For many of us, it feels like an enemy—a relentless storm of worry that keeps us from living our lives to the fullest. But what if we told you there’s another way to look at it? What if the same energy that fuels your deepest fears could also ignite your greatest passions?
As a counselor, I’ve seen this transformation firsthand. The truth is, anxiety and excitement are two sides of the same coin. They are both powerful emotional states that signal a heightened sense of alertness. Think about it:
• A stomach full of butterflies before a big presentation.
• A pounding heart before a first date.
• The rush of adrenaline when starting a new venture.
What do all of these have in common? They are moments of high stakes, where the outcome is uncertain. Our bodies don’t always know the difference between the fear of a looming threat and the thrill of a new opportunity. The same physiological responses—the quickened breath, the heightened senses, the jolt of energy—are at play in both scenarios.
So, how do we flip the script?
The key lies in understanding and redirecting this energy. It’s not about getting rid of anxiety, but about learning to see it as a signal, not a stop sign. Here’s how you can start to reframe your perspective:
1. Acknowledge and Name Your Feelings:
Instead of saying, "I'm so anxious about this," try, "I’m feeling a lot of energy and uncertainty about this, which is okay." Naming the feeling without judgment helps to separate you from the emotion. This small shift in language can make a huge difference.
2. Focus on Your "Why":
Anxiety often arises when we are about to step into something that truly matters to us. Ask yourself: Why am I doing this? What is the potential reward? When you connect your feelings to a meaningful purpose, the fear can transform into a sense of purpose and drive.
3. Take Action, Even a Small Step:
Anxiety loves to keep us paralyzed. The antidote is action. Instead of waiting for the feeling to go away, take one small, manageable step toward your goal. This could be as simple as drafting an email, making a phone call, or writing down a list. Each step forward builds confidence and shifts your focus from what you’re afraid of to what you are capable of.
4. Practice Mindfulness:
Mindfulness helps us stay present with our feelings without getting swept away by them. By focusing on your breath and what's happening in your body, you can observe the physical sensations of anxiety without letting them control you. This practice can help you see those jitters for what they are—just a wave of energy, not a tsunami.
5. Rewrite Your Story:
Anxiety often tells a story of "what if" scenarios, usually with a negative ending. Challenge those narratives. Start to imagine the best-case scenarios. What if this presentation goes wonderfully? What if this new job is everything you've ever wanted? By intentionally shifting your internal monologue, you can start to build excitement instead of fear.
We believe that your emotional and spiritual well-being are deeply connected. Just as 3 John 1:2 reminds us, “Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers,” we are called to care for our whole selves.
If you are struggling with anxiety, remember that you don't have to navigate this alone. Learning to channel this powerful emotion is a skill that can be developed. Understand your feelings, reframe your perspective, and discover the potential that lies on the other side of fear.