Anxiety is a common experience that many of us struggle with, but what if you could transform it into something positive with just two words?
In this post, we’ll explore how you can shift your mindset from anxiety to excitement, leveraging the physiological similarities between these two states to enhance your performance and well-being.
Understanding Anxiety and Excitement
Anxiety and excitement share the same physiological responses: increased heart rate, rapid breathing, and the release of adrenaline and cortisol.
The key difference lies in how we interpret these sensations.
By reinterpreting anxiety as excitement, we can harness this energy to our advantage.
Related: Top 10 Practical CBT Exercises For Generalized Anxiety Disorder Relief
The Power of “I’m Excited”
Switching from anxiety to excitement can be as simple as saying, “I’m excited.”
This phrase helps you move from a threat mindset, focused on potential negative outcomes, to an opportunity mindset, focused on the positive possibilities.
Research has shown that when people say “I’m excited,” they perform better in various tasks, including giving speeches, singing karaoke, and taking math tests. (source)
This simple shift helps you channel the heightened energy of anxiety into a productive, performance-enhancing state.
How to Implement This Shift?
Here are practical steps to transform anxiety into excitement:
1. Get Specific About Your Fear:
Identify and articulate your specific anxiety.
For example, “I’m afraid I’ll say something stupid.”
2. Reframe Fear as Excitement:
Replace your fear with excitement.
For instance, “I’m excited to share these important ideas.”
3. Visualize Positive Outcomes:
Imagine successful outcomes and how you’ll feel after achieving them.
This visualization helps shift your focus from fear to anticipation.
Related: How To Stop Should-Ing On Yourself?
4. Use Positive Affirmations:
Reinforce your confidence with affirmations like “I am capable.”
5. Channel Energy into Action:
Convert your anxious energy into productive actions.
For example, prepare thoroughly for a presentation to build confidence.
6. Reward Yourself:
After completing the task, acknowledge your success and reward yourself.
This positive reinforcement helps cement the association between anxiety and excitement.
Related: High Functioning Anxiety Test (& How To Support Anxiety Recovery)
7. Predicting and Embracing Anxiety
Anticipate situations where you might feel anxious and reframe them as opportunities for excitement.
For example, if you’re giving a speech, acknowledge that you’ll feel nervous but view it as a sign that you care and are excited about the opportunity.
Conclusion
Transforming anxiety into excitement is a powerful tool that can enhance your performance and improve your overall well-being.
Remember, the next time you feel anxious, try saying, “I’m excited,” and watch how it transforms your experience.
You got this!
