“Concentration is a fine antidote to anxiety.”
– Jack Nicklaus, 18-Time Major Golf Champion
Anxiety. Worry. Fear.
These are closely tied emotions that cause all kinds of problems for us. They damage our health, weaken our immune systems, and hamper our performance in sports, business, and any number of various mental and physical activities.
If we let these emotions get out of hand, they can lead to long-term physical, mental, and financial consequences.
It’s normal for these emotions to show up when we encounter stressful situations.
When we’re blindsided by trouble, facing a high-stakes moment, or simply disappointed because we failed at something, we all tend to feel anxious, worried, and fearful about the future.
The key is how we respond to these emotions when they inevitably arise.
The best way to defeat such debilitating emotions is by shifting your concentration.
Shift your focus to something you have control over right this moment.
Anxiety, worry, and fear will run away with your thoughts if you let them. They will keep you focused on all the bad things that might happen in the future.
When you notice such thoughts, immediately ask yourself, “Is this something I can control right now?”
If the answer is no, immediately shift your focus to what you can control.
Concentrate only on your attitude and the task at hand.
Winning Self-Talk
(Try repeating the following affirmation to yourself as often as possible over the next seven days. Notice how it changes your mindset.)
“I focus on only the things I have total control over: my effort and my attitude.”
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