Worry (... anxiety, stress)

It's normal to worry, or be nervous or anxious. It's our nature, to keep us safe. It's based in the "flight or fight" reflex. But when stress gets in the way of our progress, that's a problem. I know: I've suffered episodes when I shouldn't have driven (and clinical anxiety and depression when I COULDN'T drive or do much else).

However, we can usually reduce the symptoms. For example, we can:

• breathe slowly and evenly;
• visualise the outcome we seek;
• distract ourselves with the prospect of a treat;
• recognise our adrenaline giving us more focus;
• live in the very present, not in what's just occurred;
• prepare an offsetting strategy, to dispel unhelpful emotions;
• later reflect on what actually happened, to learn for the future.
• talk to trusted family or friends, or your doctor ...
  
• ... and ask for outside help for the short- or long-term :)