Navigating Anxiety: The Easy Way or The Hard Way
Anxiety is as natural to us as happiness or fear, it’s part of the full spectrum of emotions that make us human. It serves a purpose, just like fear. Fear prompts us to avoid physical dangers like spiders or heights, while anxiety draws our attention to things we need to handle or prepare for. However, sometimes, this natural emotion can feel overwhelming, leading us to ask: why does it have to be so intense?
The key lies in understanding that, at its core, anxiety is a tool used by our subconscious to ensure we don’t overlook important tasks or decisions. It’s what keeps us from being too relaxed and helps drive our motivation. Yet, it doesn’t always have to lead to distress. When the subconscious mind realises the thing is going to happen anyway and it has a choice, the easy way or hard way, it will choose the easy way to deal with it.
Let me share a personal experience to illustrate this:
“Not long ago, I faced a minor eye operation. In the days leading up to it, I felt an array of symptoms: nervousness, nausea, restlessness, rapid breathing, clammy palms, and a pounding heart. High anxiety was knocking at my door, edging towards a panic attack.
I had two choices: cancel the operation and hope for the best or face it head-on. Choosing the latter, I took steps to understand what lay ahead. I called the hospital, inquired about the procedure, and prepared myself – books, snacks, and some comedy shows to lighten the mood. By accepting the situation and preparing myself, I told my subconscious: ‘I hear you, I’m ready, this is happening so choose the easy way.’ This acknowledgment eased my anxiety and removed the uncertainty.
The result? I spent the rest of the week calm and relaxed. On the day of the operation, I was the one sharing jokes with the surgeon and nurses, bringing laughter to the waiting room”.
This experience solidifies my belief in the power of understanding and managing anxiety. By recognising it as a natural, albeit sometimes misguided attempt of our subconscious to help us, we can learn to address it constructively. Dealing with anxiety doesn’t have to be a struggle; it can be a process of understanding, preparation, and control.
Helping others navigate their anxiety, stress and fear is more than a profession to me, it’s a passion. Imagine the relief and empowerment you’d feel by taking control back from your anxiety. That’s the journey I want to guide you on. Let’s discover together how you can transform your anxiety from a source of distress to a manageable, even helpful, part of your life.
Warmly regards,
Paul Wren
Award-Winning Hypnotherapist and Mind Coach
Control and Change Hypnotherapy
“Control Your Today, Change Your Tomorrow”