Three Keys that Helped Me Overcome Anxiety
Did you know that this year, 20% of Americans are battling a mental health condition? It’s a staggering statistic, one that hits close to home for many of us. Whether through conversations with employees, members, or friends, the reality of mental health struggles is all too prevalent. And I’ve had my own share of battles with anxiety, especially during COVID-19 pandemic.
During those challenging times, one person who truly made a difference for me was Pastor Shawn Johnson. Though I didn’t know him personally during the pandemic, I found comfort in his advice and experience with anxiety and depression. His insights became a guiding light for me, and I recently had the privilege of getting to know him and even interviewed him for the Be the Person podcast. His message resonated deeply with me, and I believe it can be a valuable resource for anyone grappling with anxiety or depression.
Pastor Johnson shared three profound things that significantly impacted my journey:
You’re not alone.
You’re not crazy.
It will get better.
When I was going through it, I felt alone, crazy and it would last forever. These were so helpful for me to hear.
Here are three practical strategies that have personally helped me navigate through anxious times, both during COVID-19 and beyond:
Move your body.
Exercise has been a lifeline for me, and Orangetheory Fitness has been particularly instrumental. The structured workouts allow me to focus my energy and quiet my mind. If that’s not available, a simple walk with my dogs listening to my play list for the year helps. Each year I create a playlist with my “Battle songs”. Songs that talk to me and make me feel strong!
Block out quiet time.
Journaling has been a game-changer for me in terms of processing my emotions. Though I initially resisted it, I’ve found that putting pen to paper helps me untangle my thoughts and identify the root causes of my anxiety.
Be in community.
The sense of belonging and support I’ve found at Orangetheory Fitness has been invaluable. Surrounding myself with a community of like-minded individuals who uplift and encourage one another has been a source of strength during challenging times.
So, if you’re struggling, I encourage you to try these strategies. And if you’re doing well, consider being a light of hope for someone who may be in need. Together, we can overcome the stigma surrounding mental health and foster a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and supported.
I believe health is the foundational pillar in life. “If you have your health, you can focus on a million things. If you don’t, you focus on one.” We have to be intentional about our health.
We all pay for health. Sometimes we pay upfront for a membership, taking time to work out, and eating healthy.
Other times we pay on the back end.
Here are a few challenges I give myself (I am great at copying what others do, so I always try to give examples):
Plan 3 workouts this week
Right now I am doing upper body lift because of a torn hamstring. They aren’t the workouts I want to do, yet they are what my body can do. What are the right workouts for you in this season? Strength or Tread 50 can be a great way to make a change.
Meal prep
Plan your meals. It is one of the biggest keys to success. Eat as much as you can from home. It saves money and you control the ingredients. I get it takes time, but the ROI is high!
Do non-exercise movement:
Can you make sure you get 8,000-10,000 steps a day? Be intentional about moving when possible. Especially if you have a desk job – take calls walking around the office or block if possible. Set a timer every hour and do 10 push-ups and 10 squats.
Other Pillars for Intentional Living
Family
Scheduling date night, time with the kids, family dinners, vacations. Intentionally trying to connect because my teenagers don’t typically want to just hang out with their mom…unless they need me to pay for something!
Friends and Community
I divide this up into 3 areas. My inner circle – my close friends. I try to connect as often as possible. Next is my “Corner” – 8-10 people that aren’t my closest friends but may be people I work with or friendships that are developing. Last is community. This is the group of people I know and like. We share interests and these people can become part of my corner. Taking time for all 3 categories is helpful for me!
Faith
I know I operate better with quiet time in the morning. That is either a bible study, prayer, or meditation. I have a mind that goes all over, and grounding it in faith has become something that is a non-negotiable for me. I used to get up and workout or work and my days significantly changed when I started with quiet time.
Finances
Because I own businesses and payroll happens every 2 weeks, this is one I pay attention to. Knowing your numbers and living within your means can be one of the best ways to reduce stress. I try to intentionally know our numbers, expenses, what we can save, and what we can give. Without being intentional, saving and giving don’t often happen.
Do you want to live an intentional life?
You can!
Pick one area today and start! If you need to focus on health – start there!! If you are doing well in the health category, pick another area!!
Remember it is our daily decisions that change our life.
Remember the person you want to be at the end of 2024!