Anxiety is often equated with kryptonite. We don’t want to experience it, we try to minimize it. Being ‘stressed out’ is equated with weakness. Adjectives used to describe the feeling reinforce that narrative: overwhelmed, fearful, worried, high-strung.
But what if the narrative could be different? In this article, we will explore why the anxiety you feel could be channeled into one of your biggest assets.
Anxiety Gives you Energy
Do you ever watch bees? We tend to focus about how anxious WE get around bees, but did you know that bees themselves get anxious? After all, their life is hardly a walk in the park. Every day they make trips, travelling long distances, to gather vital resources of pollen and nectar from flowers. All while dealing with weather conditions and perceived danger from predators, including humans. Yes, they really are more afraid of us.
You know what bees also do? They always buzz around tirelessly and never rest on their laurels. The same “buzz” can help you when it comes to rising to the challenge. You know that jittery feeling you get before a big presentation or a crucial meeting? That’s anxiety kicking in, and it’s not all bad news. In fact, that surge of adrenaline can actually give you a burst of energy. Think of it like a natural caffeine shot without the coffee. Your body is gearing up to tackle a challenge, and while it might feel uncomfortable, it can also sharpen your focus and make you more alert. So next time you’re feeling those butterflies in your stomach, try to harness that energy and channel it into whatever task is at hand. It’s your body’s way of saying, “You’ve got this!”
And that includes the energy you need to work out. Working out relieves stress, and having that push of adrenaline can act like a stimulant to power you through a sweat sesh.
Anxiety Makes You Super Productive
Anxiety can be a surprising productivity booster, driving you to tackle tasks with a sense of urgency and focus. When you’re anxious, your brain is on high alert, making it easier to prioritize and complete work efficiently. This heightened state of awareness can help you power through your to-do list, whether it’s work assignments, household chores, or running errands. The need to alleviate anxious feelings often translates into a strong drive to get things done, offering a temporary but effective way to channel nervous energy into productivity. So, while anxiety isn’t always pleasant, it can sometimes serve as a catalyst for getting a lot done in a short amount of time.
Anxiety Keeps You in Shape
It might sound a bit odd, but there’s some truth to the idea that anxiety can keep you on the leaner side. When you’re anxious, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, which can suppress your appetite and speed up your metabolism. Plus, anxious people often fidget or pace, burning off extra calories without even realizing it. Of course, this isn’t a healthy or sustainable way to manage weight, and chronic anxiety can lead to other health issues. But in small doses, those nervous habits might help keep off a few extra pounds. Just remember, it’s important to find balance and take care of your mental health too.
Anxiety Keeps You Safe
Believe it or not, anxiety has a protective side – known as the “fight or flight” response. It’s like your own personal alarm system, alerting you to potential dangers and keeping you on your toes. When you’re anxious, you’re more likely to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, which can help you avoid risky situations. It’s an evolutionary trait that’s helped humans survive for thousands of years. So while anxiety can be a pain, it’s also a useful tool that helps you stay vigilant and prepared. Embrace it as a part of your natural instincts, but don’t let it control your life. Balance is key, as always.
How to Positively Channel Your Anxiety
Exercise
Channeling your energy into exercise can be incredibly productive, as it not only helps reduce anxiety but also boosts your overall physical health. A regular workout routine can transform anxious energy into strength and endurance, leaving you feeling more balanced and accomplished.
This can be especially true for group sports or group fitness classes. A weekly basketball, volleyball, tennis team or running group can both be a source of forming new relationships (which is a massive mental health booster) and having a specific reason to show up somewhere on time.
Meditation
Practicing meditation is a powerful way to focus your anxious energy, turning it into a calm, centered state of mind. Even a few minutes of mindfulness each day can help you manage stress and improve your mental clarity and productivity. You can read my busy people guide for meditation here:
Passion Projects
Whenever I feel overwhelmed, I spend about 30 minutes just doing something for my fitness content – making a quick video, blogging, or even just ideating. It gives me a sense of control and calm,. Diving into passion projects allows you to use your energy creatively and constructively, providing a satisfying outlet for anxious feelings. Whether it’s painting, writing, or building something new, these activities can help transform nervous energy into a sense of achievement and joy. Even something engaging, like Sudoku or online games, can really just divert your mind from the invasive thoughts.
