We all worry about things. We worry about school, work, relationships, money, running out of time, and our general imperfections. Not surprisingly, all this worrying can be pretty harmful. The good news is that if you try hard enough, you can totally change how stressful situations affect you.
1. Enjoy the here and now.
Living in the “now” is all about being fully present in that specific moment in time. Although you may have an endless list of tasks you have to accomplish, just appreciate where you are and what you’re doing. It’ll make the future seem a lot less overwhelming. When you really think about it, what is scarier: thinking about all the things you have to do or actually doing them?
2. Living in the “now” will make you less anxious.
Overwhelming thoughts cause anxiety and even panic attacks, but living in the “now” means you are not thinking about the long list of things you have to do tomorrow. This doesn’t mean you should just put off all your responsibilities and be lazy. As you study for your exam, write your ten-page essay, or prepare for a job interview, just remember to stay positive. Erase thoughts like “what if I forget something,” “what if my writing isn’t strong enough,” or “what if I make a fool out of myself?”
3. Living in the “now” will let you breathe.
When you go through the day with a calmer attitude, you’ll slowly notice your long to-do list getting smaller and smaller. Be proud of yourself! You did it! You gracefully got through the things you needed to get done. More importantly, you weren’t miserable along the way.