Anxiety has a way of making us feel safe—comfortable even—in the very places that keep us stuck. It’s that voice in our head that says, “You can’t do this” or “Don’t even try.” Over time, that voice becomes so familiar, so persuasive, that we stop questioning it.
We live in a society that anxiety has groomed to stay scared. Scared of driving—why drive when you can Uber everything in? Besides, if you go out, you might have to cross the street. Scared of crowds—what if you embarrass yourself? Scared to take risks, to explore, to step outside of the boundaries anxiety has created.
Take flying, for example. I’ve dreamed of getting on a plane and exploring the world. But that little anxious voice always chimes in: “Don’t move. Don’t risk it. You might die.” As if staying put will let me live forever. And so, I put off my dreams, convincing myself that maybe in five years, when I’ve dealt with everything else, I’ll finally conquer my fears.
Sound familiar?
The truth is, life doesn’t have to be that way. I know what it’s like to feel stuck, spinning my wheels in reverse, making no forward motion. That’s anxiety talking—telling me to stay safe, to stay small, to stay scared. But here’s the thing: anxiety doesn’t have to control the narrative.
It’s not easy to move forward, but it is possible. You are the creator and chief of your own life. The anxious voice might always be there, but it doesn’t have to define your decisions.
You have the power to challenge the voice, to take small steps, and to reclaim your life. Because every moment spent stuck is a moment missed. And you deserve so much more than that.
Please send any comments or suggestions to gerard.tripping@gmail.com