Today I remember the image I learned of seeing your anxiety or negative emotions as “along for the ride” but not in the driver’s seat. Think of all your stress or fear as sitting in the back seat of your car. Sure, fear can throw a tantrum, make all kinds of noise, and try to distract you, but ultimately, fear or anxiety aren’t driving the car–or your day. They are just along for the ride.
Eventually, they calm down. You still drive on and do all the things you want to do, and fear and anxiety might indeed stay with you the whole time. But you still drive. You still move forward. Every once in a while, you can look in the back seat, check on everyone, and give them some attention, but ultimately, you’re driving on.