Life has a funny way of testing our resilience, and I've come to realize that when trying to manage anxiety, one does not stop the paralyzing chains completely, it's all about changing our response to it. I want to share my experiences and how I manage moments of anxiety with you in hopes that perhaps you might find your path to peace as well.
Woke up early this morning to check my crypto portfolio (as many do), and it sent my heart sinking when it showed me some red numbers. I imagine you can understand that feeling - the tightening in the stomach, the mind racing with worst-case scenarios. Cryptocurrency is actually a perfect metaphor for life- one moment everything is going pretty well, then the next day you're rethinking every move you have ever made.
But it is in this particular moment that things get really interesting. As usual, that familiar wave of panic washed over me; however, what I heard inside was this thunderous voice saying, "BE WHO YOU ARE, THINK POSITIVE." It's as if an electrical switch has been thrown in my head. In this simple reminder, I found my anchor in stress.
The beauty of positive thinking is not in denying reality, it is in how we frame that reality. Instead of dwelling on the portfolio dip, I started looking at the long-term view. This very perspective has gotten me through so many situations that could trigger anxiety in my life.
For example, family responsibilities. Sometimes, as a provider, the weight of expectations can be crushing. Bills need paying, decisions need making, and everyone seems to be looking to you for answers. But positive thinking helps me see these responsibilities not as burdens but as signs that I'm needed and valued.
I learned that positive thinking indeed requires practice similar to doing some bodybuilding work. It all starts with gratitude. For example, every morning, before seeing any numbers or responding to any message, I take a minute and appreciate what I have. That small ritual sets the tone for the whole day.
Humor has been my faithful companion in this journey. There is always something to laugh about, especially at tense moments, which can change your perspective instantly. It's like giving your mind a mini-vacation from worry.
The other powerful strategy I have adopted is the positive people who come around me. I know anxiety thrives in solitude and starts to fade away when shared with understanding friends. Not everyone has to know your crypto investments or personal challenges, but having a circle of positive-minded people makes all the difference.
Speaking up about feelings has been a transformation in itself. There's strength in acknowledging our struggles while still being hopeful for better days. It is this balance of realism and optimism that makes positive thinking sustainable.
What I love about positive thinking is the domino effect it has. When I do not freak out during volatility in the market or personal challenges, I make clearer decisions, sleep much better at night, and retain more energy to give to my loved ones.
Another big factor working for me has been self-awareness, which has helped me in realizing that anxiety is a part of human experience and extracted an extra layer of anxiety most of us add by trying to be anxious. The teaching of positive thinking lies in accepting these feelings without letting them overpower.
After all, hope isn't just some warm, fuzzy feeling, hope actually is a realistic survival tool. When crypto markets crash and responsibilities or unexpected blows of life bury us under their avalanche, our inner compass has to be positively found to set us back in sure-footedness and stability.
Now begin small. I encourage you, observe your thought patterns in a way of challenging the worst narratives and savoring very small victories first. Most importantly, be good to yourself. The power of positive thinking comes more from building inner resilience to challenge life's twists and turns but with grace, optimism, or hope.
Just like the crypto market, life is full of ups and downs, but with positive thinking inside of you, you would be better equipped to deal with everything coming your way. Life after all is not about avoiding the storm, it's how one learns to dance in the rain.
The image used is AI generated.
This is my submission for today's prompt in the #Januaryinleo daily writing challenge.