This morning I did something that usually, I’m pretty good at doing without becoming anxious. It used to be that I could hardly complete this task at all and then I slowly became better at it. This morning, I felt some of my fear return. I almost stopped what I was doing before I was finished. However, I knew that if I stopped, it would just cause further anxiety and would be inconvenient. I also told myself that if I could get through this, I would be proud of myself. Those thoughts kept me going. I also believe that God gave me the strength to get through what I was struggling with.
You know what? I completed the task! I talked myself through it and yes, I am super proud of myself! I didn’t let fear stand in my way. Was it difficult? Yes. What it worth it?Absolutely! Seeing that progress – that I didn’t give in to my anxiety – is highly encouraging. It shows me that I am stronger than it, not the other way around.
When I completed the task at hand, I still felt anxious. I was shaky. I continued to talk to myself to calm myself down. I told myself, “You’re okay. You got through it. You did well.” As some of you may already know, sometimes three lines may not be enough. I continued to tell myself that I was okay and that I was safe now. Another creeping feeling told me that maybe I wasn’t okay, but you know what? I overcame that too. I just kept telling myself that the scary part (or what was originally perceived as such) was over. I could relax now and take my time. There was no rush carrying on with the rest of my day.
We all have the strength to overcome our obstacles. Each and every single one of us. We just have to have faith in ourselves and sometimes, talk ourselves through it. It’s okay to get anxious. The important thing is that you don’t give up on yourself. You’re worth fighting for! You shouldn’t have to suffer. So, don’t give up on yourself and remember – you are stronger than your anxiety, even if it sometimes feels otherwise.
I hope you’re all doing well. Don’t forget that you’re not alone in your struggles. I wish you all the best.
-B.