Anxiously Awaiting
Remember when social media used to just be badly filtered latte art and pictures of ocean sunsets?
For as long as I can remember, I have had anxiety.
Anxiety is, unfortunately, very common.
And, it is on the rise with the technological age.
Information overload leads to overwhelming expectations and unending comparison.
Technological Age
We have too much information at our fingertips. Many days, I am finding myself wanting to stay away from social media all together. Being informed is good, but there are times when it is essential to step away.
Information Overload
We often worry more when we have too much information. It is simple as that.
I used to think that researching and information gathering would alleviate my anxiety. In some cases, it still does. However, much of the time, it actually makes it worse.
Overwhelming Expectations
With more information comes more expectations: of others, ourselves, and what our lives should look like. Expectations are important and good when we define them clearly and ensure they are realistic. However, when they are based solely on social media or on what others think of us, they may end up doing more harm than good.
Unending Comparison
In the age of social media, comparison runs rampant.
“Look at what she has.”
“She is so beautiful.”
“Her kids are so well-behaved.”
“Wow, I don’t eat that healthy!”
I remember when we used to just share badly filtered latte art and ocean sunsets on social media without a care in the world! Social media used to be fun. Now, it’s often a comparison game.
Am I still on social media? Yes.
Do I still enjoy it sometimes? Yes.
I love a good comedy reel or inspirational post from one of my favorite Christian creators.
BUT
Anxiety is still real.
And it can be all consuming (spiraling out of control, loss of focus, reality, and time).
It is exhausting.
Yet, I have been learning that I have a choice.
For many years (and still today honestly), I have let anxiety be a part of who I am and define my personality.
Anxiety is something one has, yet it does not have to be a defining characteristic.
Today, I am challenging myself to re-frame my thinking.
I HAVE anxiety. Not, anxiety has a hold on me.
I struggle with overthinking and anxious thoughts.
Those thoughts don’t have to define me.
And, most importantly, there is Someone who I can run to in my most anxious moments.
When I am anxious, it helps me to say: Jesus
And then I wait for His peace that surpasses all understanding (Phil 4:7).
In Christ,