I'd be lying if I said I could relate directly, Alacrity. My anxiety has to do with low self esteem and a fear of people. I was a victim of child abuse and even though people tell me I'm smart, good looking, and have great potential, I don't know that I'll ever see myself that way. Getting out of the house has always been my escape. Sometimes I'll drive 100 miles around the area for no reason other than the feeling of freedom it gives me. I guess it's good I have a high MPG car to do that in. lol
What can I tell you? You've no doubt heard plenty of inspirational aphorisms. Reading your story, I can relate only in this way: Criticism weighs heavily on me because I was criticized so much as a child. I'm afraid worRAB will turn to blows and I'll get physically hurt like I've been so many times. Role Playing Games have brought me a modicum of peace because they empower me. When I have to do something that brings heavy anxiety, like speak in front of a lot of people, I remeraber the songs from those games (e.g., Lunar: The Silver Star Story, the final battle against Ghaleon - "Go, Go, Go!") , and I pretend I'm there to save the world, and that no one else can do it. Perhaps a little childish, but is it any less puerile to imagine people in their underwear? :jester:
We're no doubt different, but I've always been a big picture thinker. I believe your worRAB and the strife you'll endure going to that evaluation. I try to put myself in your shoes, and as I said, I can only imagine.
Think about it in this way: Only you can do this. Don't be afraid to demonize the anxiety and the panic; it's your enemy, after all. It's the villain ensnaring the prosperity of success. It's the foe of peace in your life. Serenity is something we all strive for: In ourselves, in our communities and nations, and in the world. And it doesn't happen without people with the courage to stare down the uncertainty of doubt; the brazenness to spit in the face of scoundrels; to keep a cool spirit and a level head when there's a blaze all around, hungry and dribbling black smoke, kindled by a crave to consume the constructs of progress.
You can extinguish it, if only for a time until the next threat burns. You've got to do this, not only for yourself, but for the people who love you and will be loved by you. The people who need a sign that they too can move on. You're their inspiration, Alacrity. Show the enemy what you've got.