How I Beat My Anxiety

By Joseph Bowden

Anxiety is a feeling of a constant worry. You’re living in sustained fear and feel nothing will ever go right for you so you begin to question your existence.

My anxiety started in my mid-20s as I took a wrong turn in life. I struggled to maintain eye contact and rushed every word because I didn’t want to be in the presence of anyone. I was uncomfortable with any form of social interaction. I was physically sick a few times because I let my fears control my cognitive thinking.

My confidence was shattered. I knew what I should be doing but I could never find the courage to take the smallest steps in the right direction. My anxiety even stopped me from going to the gym. The one place that helped my confidence and changed my life was now one of the last places I ever want to visit. I didn’t want to be seen in public. I became a recluse. I used to hide my face just to get something out of the car even though it was parked a few feet away from my house. I developed a form of social anxiety which is one of the many types of anxiety disorders. However, I knew I couldn’t live like this forever because I have dreams I want to achieve and a world to explore.

The hardest step was telling my family. Nevertheless, owning up to someone, especially those who love you, not only makes you realise just how much people care about you but it was also a big leap forward.

I also took control of my life by doing some of the following;

I spoke to a doctor who gave me a few leaflets for different charities I could talk to. It made me realise there are others going through the same battle and I could use them as support.

I spent some of my savings and bought a new wardrobe. I had to reinvigorate myself and walk out the front door feeling like a king. It was time to throw away the lazy loungewear that I’ve been moping around in for far too long.

I re-joined the gym too. My motivation came from visualising how I would look maybe in a year from now. I want to be stronger and leaner than ever. Push myself to the limits as hard as possible and create a strong & positive mindset.

I finally stopped comparing myself to others thus removing people from my social media accounts who I deemed unmotivating. You might have an amazing body and a life of wealth but it’s not inspiring me. You’re just another stuck up airhead craving attention from strangers. Instead, I started to follow people or groups who would encourage and motivate me.

It’s time to open your doors and fulfil your potential. Let's stop the negative thoughts and start thinking positive because there's always light at the end of a tunnel. You will begin to love yourself again.

Good luck!

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