Page 5: Seven Keys to Overcoming Anxiety

Set Gradual, Progressive Goals

       The third key to overcoming anxiety is to set gradual, progressive goals. Anxiety causes real, physical symptoms in your body. However, you can learn to make changes in your life to gain control over how your body reacts.  

       The process of conquering anxiety requires at least a tiny part of you accept the possibility that you have the power within to succeed. Making a commitment also involves setting goals and following through.

       People that experience anxiety tend to set unrealistically high goals for themselves. This can lead to feelings of frustration and halt your progress because you feel you have 'failed.' To avoid this pitfall, set yourself up for success by setting gradual, progressive goals. 

       For example, a poor goal might be "I want to never feel anxious again and I want to be happy every moment." This goal is too vague, too large, and too unrealistic. Instead, set yourself up for success by setting achievable, specific goals. For example, one goal might be to learn and put into practice a method for dealing with intense anxiety; OR a goal might be to learn and practice daily a method for dealing with your 'What if' thoughts.

       I repeat: start small. Once you achieve these goals, you can congratulate yourself and set new goals for your growth.

         Next page: Train Your Body and Mind to Respond to Stress Differently