Ten Techniques to Stop Worrying

Even if you know consciously that worrying about your life is bad, sometimes it's hard to stop ruminating on what could be. If you're finding it hard to stop thinking about current or potential problems, here are ten behavioral techniques to stop worrying:

1. Don't Assume the Worst - When people worry, they often imagine a myriad of negative outcomes. If you catch yourself worrying, try to imagine the possibility that things could work out better than expected or not change at all.

2. Take Action - Instead of fearing what might come, take action to change your life for the better. If you're worried about being fired, start sending out resumes for jobs you'd like better. Address the problems that are causing you stress.

3. Get Organized - Life is easier when the little things are in place. For example, create a special spot for your house keys so you don't have to hunt every time you need to walk out the door.

4. Change the Subject - Sometimes you just need to break the negative cycle of rumination. Get up and do something different - sort your laundry, run an errand, go outside and take a brisk walk.

5. Schedule Worry Time - Don't allow yourself to worry throughout the day. Set aside half an hour to explore all of your fears deeply and without interruption. Experts have found that when you worry without resistance, it loses its power.

6. Write It Out - Get all of your worries out of your head by writing them down. Keep your worry journal next to your bed so that you can jot down problems that wake you up in the middle of the night.

7. Tell a Friend - Talking with someone you trust is the best way to put your fears into perspective.

8. Relax Your Body, Relax Your Mind - If you can soothe your nervous system, your nervous mind will follow suit. Take a hot bath, meditate, get a massage, get acupuncture, exercise... The list is endless.

9. Do The Right Stuff, Even If It Feels Wrong - You know how to take care of your body - eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, get a good night's sleep and drink lots of water. When you feel bad, you need to start doing all of these things, no matter how awkward and uncomfortable they might feel. After a while, you'll feel better naturally.

10. Learn to Let Go - Some things in life you just can't control, and worrying about them won't change that. Learn to identify things that you cannot change, and don't dwell on them. Move on with your life.

Hopefully at least one of these techniques will bring you many peaceful moments.