9 simple steps to stop worry from choking you

Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrow. It empties today of its strength. Corrie Ten Boom

Worry about the future (and regret of the past) stop us making the most of what we have NOW by being fully present and active, making the most of every moment we have.

Don’t worry, be happy…

Callous advice for those in mental and emotional agony that is tearing them apart inside.

How does one keep from worrying? Is it even possible?

One way is to practice what is known as “mindfulness”, to live in the present and focus on the immediate task at hand.

Of course, I don’t mean stop preparing and planning for your future. Do all that you need to and then let go… Stop worrying about what is NOT in your control. 

A journey of a 1,000 miles begins with a single step.

Each subsequent step that follows is just as important as the previous one and the one that is to come. 

So the best thing that you can do is to stay calm and collected and focus your mind and energy on the immediate task at hand.

Let go of everything… the past, the future, guilt, fear, pain, etc. and go about doing:

1. Daily rituals/chores – simple mundane tasks can be used to still your mind and spirit. It could be anything from preparing your meals, washing dishes, painting, mowing the lawns, cleaning, etc. It matters little what the task is but that it allows you to simply focus on doing something useful.  
2. Friends – who you can share with and who will walk with you. Take the time to cultivate strong friendships.
3. Learning – whether online or through books, it opens up the mind and plants new seeds of ideas and new perspectives.
4. Music – music that can help you still the mind and soul. Spotify is a great FREE resource for this.
5. Journaling – expressing your thoughts can be a cathartic outlet  and help you clarify what it is that’s eating you up inside.
6. Exercise – healthy body = healthy mind. The sweat from the physical activity and the adrenalin produced will help you feel better and think more clearly.  
7. Be grateful – for what you have even if it is simply being alive, having food on the table and a roof over your head. 
8. Breathe…easier said than done. When things seem overwhelming, don’t forget to stop and breathe deeply. This moves you from a stressful state to a more relaxed state.
9. Sleep can be a blessing as you shut down and let your mind and body be renewed.
10. <Please add what works for you in the comments section…>

Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭34

There are different traditions and techniques. Choose and adapt what will work for you. Here’s a TED Talk by Andy Puddicombe, a meditation and mindfulness expert to get you started.