Anxiety. Some people deny suffering from it. Other people will state that everyone deals with it. Perhaps, they’re confusing anxiety with nervousness. I have learned that nervousness is generally temporal, while anxiety is typically more of a chronic issue.
Anxiety is quite familiar to most entrepreneurs. Many will try to cover it up, but it still affects them. I have dealt with it for a long time. Many people saw my successes, but I always made a great effort in hiding emotions to adversity. I felt that my role was to inspire people rather than overwhelming them with my problems.
Some people believe that successful entrepreneurs seem to have their life together. It’s partially true, but there’s more to life than accolades and money. There are family, friendships, romance, leisurely activities, among others. A fulfilled life is having success in all facets of your life.
Recently, I have started to get comfortable with my anxiety. Initially, I had difficulty confessing this recurring problem to other people. Instead, I chose to hide behind the introvert label. I’m an introvert, but all introverts don’t suffer with anxiety.
For years, I have ignored my anxiety. I was so fixated on working so hard to attain a higher level of status. I felt so invested in the cause. Yet, I was ignoring the other aspects of life.
Reaching the finish line is my core message. I thought I was living up to it. Unfortunately, my focus caused me to ignore my friendships, love life, health, and leisurely activities. Focus is powerful, but focus on the wrong things is dangerous.
I don’t have a lot of friends, but I need to do a better job of being there for them. Most of my friends are low maintenance, but that still shouldn’t be an excuse. I can be a better friend, starting today.
Continues in Part 2
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