The Weekly Reset: Light Switches
So, recently I went on a blind date, I was overcome with anxiety and almost cancelled. However, I went through with it, and once on the date, I settled down. (Side note: If you’re curious, there won’t be a second date.) This is not the only area of my life where anxiety can rear its ugly head.
It’s time for a reset!
The Issue
My mind goes to all sorts of unfriendly places. This gets in the way of living the life I want to live. I do not want to be held back by worry or anxiety.
My Why
Someone once asked me to consider how much fear has robbed me of in my life. I can’t remember who it was, but it stuck with me. I do not want to be controlled by fear, anxiety, or any other mental hang up. I want to be free.
Who I Want to Be
I want to be confident. I want to be someone who does not back down from a challenge. I want to be courageous.
Strengths-Based Strategies
I was discussing this topic with my mentor coach, and he described anxiety as being in a room with the lights off. It’s like you are groping for the light switch but cannot find it. I took that metaphor and ran with it. I said that I needed to find my light switches, those things that are more exciting than anxiety. Interest is key with ADHD. Without interest, it is next to impossible for the ADHD brain to focus. Dr. Ned Hallowell says that interest is anything that excites and engages the brain. Anxiety is very interesting for my brain, which is why I need to find light switches that can turn on the lights and overcome the darkness of anxiety. Moreover, I told my coach that I need to find the light switches when the lights are on so I know where they are when things get dark.
Now, what are those light switches? I do not know exactly what they are right now. However, I know I am smart and can be quite analytical. I am confident I can find them. They will be things that are related to my strengths and interests. I like humor and creativity, so there will be some light switches in those categories. One thing I do know that can overtake anxiety is coaching. I love my job, and coaching helps me forget about what crap is happening in my life. Sooooo, if you want to get a better handle on your ADHD and want to help me use one of my light switches, click here to explore if coaching with Reset ADHD is right for you.