Five Habits that Are Driving Up Your Anxiety

In a world marked by comparison, unrealistic expectations, and perpetual stress, anxiety is becoming increasingly prevalent. While it's easy to attribute our worries to external factors like genetics, social media, or societal divisions, it's crucial to examine our own habits and beliefs that might be contributing to the rising tide of anxiety. Let's explore five habits that might be driven by or driving up your anxiety.

1. The Incessant Focus on Perfection over Direction

Anxiety, at its core, is a survival mechanism designed to trigger fight or flight responses. The habit of fixating on perfection rather than direction can lead to unnecessary stress. Constantly striving for perfection in tasks can be counterproductive, leading to overthinking and unnecessary complexities.

The Fix: Instead of fixating on perfection, clarify the healthiest direction for your life. Set clear goals and focus on the most important aspects of your journey. Accept that sometimes 'good enough' is sufficient and worry about efficiency once the direction is established.

2. Using Your Own Sensitivity Against You

People prone to anxiety often possess heightened sensitivity to various stimuli. However, using this sensitivity to magnify weaknesses or focus excessively on perceived flaws can worsen anxiety. Rather than harnessing this sensitivity as a superpower, it becomes a tool for self-criticism.

The Fix: Redirect your sensitivity towards positive endeavors. Use your heightened awareness to make a positive impact on the world around you rather than turning it inward. Focus on improving responses and habits rather than dwelling on personal weaknesses.

3. Blaming Everything/Everyone but Your Anxiety

Blaming external factors for anxiety is a common habit. Whether it's blaming relationships, children, or external circumstances, it's easier to point fingers than to acknowledge personal responsibility.

The Fix: Acceptance is the first step towards change. Take responsibility for your choices and acknowledge anxiety as a factor. As Albert Einstein said, "You cannot solve a problem with the same level of thinking that created it." Understand that blaming external factors won't solve the root issue.

4. Perpetually Biting off More Than You Can Chew

Overestimating one's capabilities and overcommitting is a habit rooted in anxiety. This 'Over' behavior stems from a desire to prove worthiness or compensate for insecurities, leading to overwhelming stress.

The Fix: Learn to say 'no' intentionally. Keep track of unfinished projects and assess the impact of overcommitting on your well-being. Recognize that saying 'no' to others is, in essence, saying 'yes' to yourself.

5. Practicing the Art of Avoidance

Avoidance is an 'under' behavior of anxiety, where individuals sidestep uncomfortable situations, often leading to procrastination and neglect of responsibilities.

The Fix: Challenge yourself to confront discomfort. Force yourself to tackle challenging tasks rather than avoiding them. Overcoming avoidance builds resilience and self-efficacy over time.

In conclusion, breaking free from these habits requires self-awareness, intentional choices, and a commitment to personal growth. By addressing these habits, you take a significant step towards managing and reducing anxiety in your life.