Don't Worry, Take action

Don't Worry, Take action

There was a popular song several years ago with the refrain, "Don't worry. Be happy." Great advice! However, it is impossible to be happy if you are worried, and you can't just stop worrying and be happy. The key to eliminating worry and being happy is to take action. Action is the enemy of worry.

When you don't feel like there is anything you can do about a situation, it is easy to worry. Action takes your mind off worry and gives you a different focus. There are times when there is nothing you can do about the problem, but that doesn't mean that there is nothing you can do. Often just getting busy will be enough to keep your mind off the problem and focused on a more productive task. The benefit is you don't waste the energy worrying and, when you shift your focus away from the problem, a solution often will present itself.

Coaching

Worry provides a false sense that you are doing something, but that is an illusion. Worry actually keeps you from taking action, and can paralyze your thought processes so you can't even think of a solution. Taking action, any action, even if it isn't related to the problem, will help shift your focus and energy onto a more productive task. If you find yourself worrying, get up and take action. Go for a walk, call a friend, or write in your journal. It doesn't matter what you do as long as you don't allow yourself to wallow in worry.

Coaching Question

What do you do when you feel the urge to worry?

Coaching Challenge

This week when you feel the urge to worry get busy. Do anything you want. It really doesn't matter what you do as long as you take action. The mere process of taking action will shift your energy and provide a more positive perspective.

Daily Success Formula

Worry = Waste of Time

Quotes

"Years may wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul. Worry, fear, self-distrust bows the heart and turns the spirit back to dust." Samuel Ullman

"Enjoy the journey, enjoy ever moment, and quit worrying about winning and losing." Matt Biondi

"Worry is interest paid on trouble before it falls due." William R. Inge