As we get towards the end of the year there is no doubt a bit of sadness for what we didn’t manage to achieve in the previous twelve months. For people who have anxiety and depression it is often a time of particular introspection. At the start of a new year we often tell ourselves that this year we will achieve "X", and then when we realise we haven’t we can feel sad or hopeless.
Well, I just wanted to say a word or two to people with anxiety that are feeling a bit depressed at this time of year. Firstly let me say that making plans for a new year is good, but remember to think about the execution of the plans. If you want to get over a fear of flying then think about positive steps you can take to do that. You could go on a fear of flying course, read some books on the subject, investigate the use of tranquillizer medication such as Valium or Xanax. By thinking about the process as well as the outcome we can foster changes, instead of just dreaming about them. So why not make it your new year’s resolution to move forwards with thought and action, not just with dreams.
Anxiety and phobias, and indeed depression, won’t evaporate on its own. We change something, or something in our environment changes. That is what is meant by "growing out" of something. So make changes, don’t just dream about results.
It can be a good idea to write a list of goals, maybe ten. Then prioritise them and leave them for a few days. When you come back to them check that you feel they are all pertinent still.
If they still feel right, then set about making a plan for achieving each one. This goes against the advice from some other sources. I have heard many gurus say that if you focus on a result you will unconsciously achieve it. This may or may not be the case, but in my honest opinion it is much better to focus on a target and consciously create an action plan.
So all the best for the new year! And let’s not just hope for bigger and better things, but plan for them as well!
Happy and Peaceful and Calm New Year!!
Love Thomas
