In case you couldn't tell this about me already: I'm very anxious and very high strung. About everything.
Last summer I started taking steps to eliminate my excessive anxiety by simply facing all of my problems head on. Some things have been easier than others. One thing I continually have and issue with is placing myself in uncomfortable social situations.
I have clear memories from the fourth, then the seventh, ninth......grades where I would literally hyperventilate before I needed to meet with teachers. My first year of college was one struggle after another. But slowly, the more I force myself to do things the less excruciating they become.
Today my boss emailed me, asking me to cover a press event for her. I literally stared at the email for 30 minutes before I answered. I texted Andrew. And my mom. And before I could change my mind I said I'd go.
For the rest of the day I was so nervous. I felt a creeping tightness in my back and shoulders and a sickening nausea. All I could think the whole subway ride there was "I'm so nervous. I'm so nervous."
But them I got there. And I went into the event. And I was okay. I shook hands and met people. I tried to pretend I was outgoing. I even started a conversation on my own.
It was a major struggle--convincing myself to go there. But I made it and I'm just so proud of myself for doing something so out of my comfort zone.
One small step for man, one giant leap for Kelsey.
I'm so proud of you for pushing yourself to go to the press event!! I have had problems with anxiety in the past. My sophomore year was particularly bad, it was a struggle to just go to class sometimes. I was a broadcasting major though, and was constantly having to interview people or do things that made me super uncomfortable. In the end though it definitely made me a stronger person. The more you force yourself to do things that make you nervous, the better you get at it for sure.
ReplyDeletePS Thanks for commenting on my blog - love yours!!!
Thanks so much for this! I'm starting to realize I'm definitely not the only one who struggles with this
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