Replace Anxiety with Excitement

Sometimes life can be scary. We have to deal with the unknown, intimidating situations, and scenarios that we may not feel equipped to handle. 

But did you know that there is a way to turn fear (negative connotation) into excitement (positive connotation)???

Some time ago I heard of the concept that fear and excitement are activated in the same part of the brain and that the brain can actually be tricked into believing that something fearful is actually exciting. 

"Fear activates the hypothalamus in the same way as excitement, and when it’s predictable it activates the brain’s reward center as well. And that really gets at the heart of the matter. We don’t like fear per se, we like predictable fear. It gets the limbic system fired up, making us feel more alive..." - Alex Korb, Ph.D. (Reference: here)

Just being aware of this fact, and not even necessarily understanding exactly how it works, is enough to help us become more cognizant of our opportunities to make stressful situations more bearable... if not completely exhilarating.

Next time you feel anxiety or fear....instead of focusing your energy on not being nervous or trying to brush off the nerves, think about how this experience can or will be exciting. 

Taking an exam? 
Think of this as an opportunity to showcase your skills.

Public speaking?
You are getting to share something important with others. You are working on yourself and making yourself better. 

Interview?
You are creating new opportunities. New doors are opening for you.

In life, there is already enough to be nervous about. Don't sweat the small stuff. If you can help it, try to find the thrill in things.