At the peak of my anxiety I was miserable. I missed out on all kinds of fun because of it. But at the time it was hard to not feel that way. Anxiety always seemed busy producing a never-ending lineup of frightening symptoms for me to contend with. It started with palpitations, then stomach problems, then out of control worry. And every time I mastered one symptom a brand new one would sprout up in its place. What made things worse is that I didn’t spend my time trying to get better. I just dove deeper into my little self-created hell. In fact, it’s fair to say that for a time I stopped caring about my life outside of anxiety.
This came with consequences, of course. Over time I became obsessed with anxiety and took very little interest in my work, friends, all the way up to my beautiful wife. Anxiety ripped apart my sense of happiness and left me feeling disconnected from the world. But it wasn’t all anxiety’s fault. Some of the blame lay with me as well. I knew what anxiety was doing to me but I waited years before I made an honest effort to do something about it. As I think back on those anxiety filled days, the one thing I wish I would have done, aside from seek help, was reclaim some of the happiness I had lost. I wish I would have made an effort to actually enjoy my life rather than continue my quest to avoid danger at all costs. But I didn’t come here to cry about spilled milk. Instead, I want to share 3 tips that I think would have helped me all those years ago.
So, listen now.
In this episode of The Anxiety Guru Show you’ll hear about:
- The importance of reconnecting with people
- The benefits of increased autonomy
- How to take inventory of the things that make you happy
- Responses to recent emails
To listen, you can click the play button below or visit the AG iTunes page.
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Annie falley says
Love this podcast. So on point.
Jacob says
I really find comfort in your podcasts! Keep up the awesome work!
Todd says
Thanks so much for the work you do. This is the most down to earth ,comforting , and Informative site on anxiety on the Internet. I always come back and revisit your podcasts . True Empathy can only come from first hand experience. Your support is very appreciated.
gabrielle rios says
Very helpful and love your voice and heart. It comes through. Glad I found you.
gabrielle rios says
love this and you have a great warmth. thank you