Most of you have struggled with anxiety in the past. Many of you may have chronic anxiety now. I do. Sometimes, it can get in the way of setting goals and accomplishing things. But I would like to discuss how we can manage that, drawing on my own experience.
First, draw on the knowledge that you already have. Whatever the subject or problem may be, you probably know more than you realize at first. A few years ago, my friend was starting up a new software company. He had developed an outline for a new software program that his company was going to produce, but he needed a programmer. He contacted me about it, and I told him that I had had some experience. By that time, my knowledge about computer programming languages was somewhat out of date. I had some doubts about whether I could do it or not, but I was determined to give it my best shot.
Second, draw on the resources that you have available. These can include friends, colleagues, libraries, and online resources. In this case, I borrowed a few books on computer programming from the public library. I was able to upgrade my programming skills quickly, and I set to work on devising the computer program right away.
Finally, break the problem down into bite-size pieces. I wrote and tested the computer program one portion at a time. I managed to get the program working well, and my friend was impressed. Then I asked myself, why did I ever doubt that I could do it?
Above all, believe in yourself. Don’t doubt yourself. Don’t sell yourself short. You're probably capable of accomplishing a lot more than you give yourself credit for.
Mark Harvey