8 Tips to handle ‘Worrisome thoughts’

In life, we are faced with many worries. How will we pay this bill? Where is our next meal going to come from? or Will I ever be good enough? These worries shape our attitude and beliefs. It is one thing to feel worried, and it is another to entertain these ‘Worrisome Thoughts.’ The time spent worrying doesn’t add a single second to life, worrying is a distraction to us from what we should be doing. Utilizing time is vital in this life, and if we are not using our time wisely than we are not progressing. It is understandable to feel overwhelmed or frustrated when situations arise, especially if we have no plans on how to handle them. Worrisome thoughts are inevitable, but how we manage this stress and tension makes all the difference.

We can continue feeding into our worries; Starving our Spirit by having a lack of faith, or we can stop wasting time, start planning and learn how to manage ‘Worrisome Thoughts.’

1. Prayer: Prayer changes lives! (check out #Unplugged The Documentary, in the videos tab) When we pray, we are asking God for guidance and understanding, allowing Him to remove the stress and worries from our lives. When we live carrying the burdens of our worries and the worries of others, it gets to heavy for us to carry on our shoulders. Everyday we spend carrying this heavy load, we are sinking closer and closer to the ground. Could you imagine walking around with 50lb weights on your neck? and everyday adding 10 more lbs! That’s what it’s like when we spend our days worrying about the same things over and over and over and over. Eventually leading us to hit rock bottom. But, before we get to the point, all we have to do is ask God to lift it for us. He is more than capable, more than strong and more than willing to carry it for us. He just wants us to go to Him and ask. Through prayer, God is able to work in our hearts and minds. After all, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit but it is up to us to live letting that Spirit guide us; rather than letting the flesh and worries lead our lives.
2. Focus: Think positive. I know it’s a lot easier said than done, but it is necessary. Our brain is a muscle, and thinking positive is a workout. We must train our minds to focus on the good, when the bad steals our focus. Google ‘positive quotes’ or listen to your favorite songs. No matter what we are going through, there is always something to be grateful for. If you are having a hard time figuring out what to be grateful for, try step 1.
3. Breathing Techniques: This is highly recommended. When our worries build up, it can lead to an anxiety attack or even worse, hospitalization. Taking deep breaths, and counting on each inhale and exhale, subconsciously frees the mind from worrying. It allows the brain to get a ‘rest’ from all the worrisome thoughts, and concentrate on breathing.
4. Experience the Outdoors: Nature always has a way of making things better. When I feel worried, I take a walk. Looking at the trees, clouds in the sky or birds flying around, somehow makes my problems seem insignificant. Taking a walk is helpful to remind yourself, that you are not alone. There are millions of people going through struggles, and worries just like you are. But remember this, there is always someone in the world that would be willing to trade your worries for their’s in a heartbeat.
5. Hobby: If we are doing something we enjoy, we are less likely to feel worried. Start a scrapbook, write poetry or paint. Whatever it is that you enjoy doing, do more of it! Free your mind to experience enjoyable activities. This will create space for your mind to gain new thoughts, and understandings. Maybe, all you need is a break from the worrying to gain a new perspective.
6. Think Realistically: Are we worried about something that we have no control over? Evaluate the things you are worried about, and ask yourself the ‘realistic question.’ Do you have the power to create change in this situation? If you are worried that it will rain on your wedding day or worried that you will get into a car accident . . . Stop. You have no control over the weather and no control over other drivers. Be realistic and focus on what you have control over.
7. Be prepared: Most of the time, worrying stems from a lack of preparation. If we are worried about Plan A unfolding, than we need to have a Plan B and C just incase. When you have a game plan already lined up the thoughts of Plan A not working, won’t be so bad. Since, we are prepared for the worse scenario, there won’t be any surprises because we are prepared for it all. Remember, the enemy tries to throw many roadblocks and obstacles your way to turn you from the righteous path. Be aware and Be prepared!
8. Read God’s word: By reading His word, we are able to understand life from His perspective. Having faith means, trusting that God will take care of you always. He will provide your every need and desires in life. When we worry, it shows God that we lack trust in His plans and His timing. The bible is created to teach us how to live in this world; God wants us to enjoy everyday we are given, even if they are filled with stress or tension. God’s plan for our lives lead to hope and prosperity, so even in the struggle we must SmileWithFaith because better days are yet to come!

Do Not Worry