We all worry much more than we need to and more than most are willing to admit.
I know it’s true about myself. I may put on a brave front or display confidence, but I have a long list of apprehensions on the inside. I’ve also had plenty of intimate conversations with those I know best, and despite appearances, they, too, worry more than they let on.
All this to say—we live in a world of worriers—most hidden behind a facade of confidence.
I remember hearing as a child a common expression that 99 percent of what you worry about never comes to pass. Being young and with a stats-driven personality, I kept a casual record in my mind of how things were playing out in my own life. I can’t say what the numbers came out to, but I can say the “worried” outcome was overwhelming.
Most of what I worried about was the worst-case scenario playing out in my brain. And worse—the worrying itself didn’t help one bit. We can see how worry has negatively impacted our mental well-being and health.
Worry simply isn’t worth it. What if you decided to stop worrying about things? You’d be taking on no extra risk by doing so, as events will unfold how they would have without the worry. Outcomes may likely be even better since, without worry, our outlook is more optimistic, and optimism correlates with success.
5 Things to Stop Worrying About
I recommend five specific areas you begin ignoring. Commit to not worrying about them, and redirect your thoughts as needed. I think you’ll find an instant improvement in your disposition.1. Most People’s Opinions of You
Very few people truly know you. They can’t weigh your motives or understand the context you’re dealing with. Why give weight to the opinions of those who aren’t invested in you? Seek counsel and feedback from those who know you well and who will tell you the truth, whether it hurts to hear or not. Only the opinions of your true friends matter.2. Being Perfect
At one point in my life, I realized I had gravitated toward doing only things I knew I was good at. Not only is this a recipe for stagnation, but it’s also a fearful, narrow-minded way of viewing life. Life is for living, exploring, and trying. The thrills of art, sport, and service should not be reserved for the professionals—the amateurs who participate with love should be leading the charge.3. The Latest Trends and Fashions
As a practicing minimalist, I have sought to fill my life with less and pour more of myself into what I have chosen. It’s a tradeoff of depth for breadth, and one I am both proud of and pleased with, as it has enriched my family’s life as well as my own. Choosing a “life of less” leaves little room for fads and trends. My life is devoted to the things that last and, so naturally, to things that have stood the test of time: faith, friendship, service, and love.4. Minor Inconveniences and Annoyances
I once heard the word “unflappable” to describe a person—someone calm, collected, and not easily disturbed. This image stuck with me as it’s a quality I greatly admire in people. Being unflappable means rising above the minor inconveniences and annoyances that life throws at you. It’s a more dignified and gracious way of living that waves goodbye to worrying or fussing about anyone. You make the best of what you have and keep moving forward.5. Things Outside Your Control
I saved for last what is possibly the biggest category of things you should stop worrying about. There are things you can directly influence, things you can only influence a little, and things you can’t influence at all. When common sense prevails, we can invest our emotional energy in direct proportion to our ability to influence and come to peace with everything else.I suggest the happier path of choosing not to worry at all and giving your very best to the few things you’ve been entrusted to care about.
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