The Purpose of Worry
It’s the same with worry. We worry when we are confronted with situations whose outcome we care about. Worry is a red flag that pops up to let us know that something pending is important to us. Just like with guilt, once you notice the ‘worry flag’ it’s time to look at what the situation is and decide if you have the right and the ability to impact it. You have the right if it’s truly your problem. You don’t have the right if it belongs to someone else. (For example, Jim has the right and responsibility to make decisions regarding his business. However, he does not have the right to make decisions about his adult daughter’s business, even though he cares about what happens to it and her). If you determine that you do have the right, then stop worrying and take action to influence the outcome. If you’ve already done all you can, or it’s something over which you have no control (the outcome of a contract once it’s submitted, the world situation, the health of a loved one) then it’s time to stop draining your focus and energy, let go of the worry and PUT DOWN THE FLAG!!!

Put Down The Flag
It’s been my experience that people usually worry about things over which they have no control. It’s almost as if we believe that by worrying we are doing something constructive which will influence the outcome. However, the reality is that no amount of worry will accomplish anything positive.

So the next time you notice you’re feeling guilty or worrying, instead of holding on to these emotions and allowing them to add stress to your life, ask yourself what their message is for you. Then thank them for what they have shown you, take action to rectify the situation if possible, and PUT DOWN THE FLAG!!!

Free Worksheet
For a free worksheet to help you look at how Guilt and Worry impact your life, go to our website at www.insidejobscoach.com and click on Resources.