Week 41 - “I've had a lot of worries in my life, most of which never happened” - Mark Twain
In a recent attempt to deal with the doubt and worry life always seems to create, I’ve started to internalize the idea that many of my concerns and doubts probably won’t materialize like I think they will.
My thoughts went from stressing about school to realizing I probably won’t fail that class, and the presentation I'm dreading next week will likely go smoother than I'm imagining. And although the transition hasn’t been the easiest, I definitely notice myself feeling a lot more at peace when it comes to the future. By essentially letting go of my concerns, I’ve found myself much more involved in the present.
However, part of me has started to worry(ironic, I know) that there could be some unseen consequences of living so carefree. For one, I think this type of mindset is a ticking time bomb. Sure, most of my concerns probably won’t materialize. But some will. And to live as if that won’t ever happen will only render me unprepared when it does.
Additionally, without any worry or stress about the future, I’ve felt a little odd at times. Specifically, during times when I know I’d normally be stressed or worried, I find myself calm to the point where I’m almost carefree. And although some might say this is a good thing, part of me can’t shake the feeling that it’s not right to live without any sense of urgency or concern.
I don’t believe that just because things will probably work out, I should adopt a laissez-faire attitude and let fate dictate my path. In my opinion, a lot of the fun in life comes from the risk of doing things that cause you stress. Additionally, I’m a strong believer in the idea that many of the things in life that cause us stress come from a lack of action. For example, if I’m stressed about an upcoming midterm, it’s probably due to a lack of being prepared. But if I’m worried about hearing back about a job offer, worrying is pointless since I can’t do anything about it.
Perhaps the key lies not in discarding worry entirely, but in learning to distinguish between productive concern, which can remind me of what I need to do, and unproductive anxiety, which only hinders and distresses. In this light, my hope is that I don’t stop worrying entirely, but instead manage it wisely, ensuring that it serves as motivation rather than a hindrance.
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