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Developing a curious mind as an antidote to anxiety

Developing a curious mind as an antidote to anxiety

Developing a curious mind might be one of the most important ways to engage in life.  One of the ways to work with our own anxiety in life is to be curious – and let’s be honest, we are all anxious beings to some extent.  If you are curious, you have a desire to learn something – you can develop an open mind.  If you are curious, (even if a bit fearful) you will learn that you are capable and competent.  You will develop competencies and trust in yourself because you will develop internal resources such as problem solving to work through situations in life that you cannot control.

As an example, if you are travelling somewhere new, whether that be by car, plane, train or bus, you might be a little apprehensive about going somewhere new.  If your apprehension is rooted in fear, for example: “what if the car breaks down?” “what if my plane arrives late and I miss my connection?” “what if I lose my wallet?”, then you will feel the anxiety in your body and you will feel scared. 

Instead, what if you said the following when you are feeling a little nervous about travelling: “I wonder how I will handle myself if the car breaks down?” “I wonder how I will problem solve my situation if the plane arrives late and I miss my connection?” “I wonder how I will take care of my panic if I lose my wallet?” 

The above questions will help you stay more grounded and less fearful.   You will be able to see any situation as solvable and you will be able to resource yourself internally.  You will be able to think clearer and use your mind to solve any dilemma that you encounter.  This will allow you to engage in the world with an adventurous spirit and with a curious mind.

 

 

 

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