Stop Creating Anxiety For Yourself

My mother had a theory about how much gasoline to keep in her tank.

She didn’t believe in ever filling her car up and would buy gas only by the half-tankful. Mom didn’t want the “extra weight” dragging the car down, and she wanted better mileage.

Does that make any sense to you?

I’m pretty sure cars are engineered to optimize gas tank size relative to performance. By clinging to this belief, my mother created chronic low-grade anxiety for herself, with no possibility of relief, ever.

Watching the needle on a gas gauge is a cognitive load. Having to worry about running out of gas is anxiety-provoking. My mom doubled down on both.

As the needle sinks toward EMPTY, the more often you check it. The more your mind races: Do I stop now, or later? How many miles do I have left? If I run out of gas, is my AAA membership still good?

It’s nuts making.

I am the opposite. I love getting in my car after filling the tank. It’s one of my top feel-good life moments. I am ready to leave without notice! I can drive for hours without stopping! It’s all pure anticipation and joy.

Not having to squander attention and energy for several hours is just a bonus.

I think of my mom denying herself a full tank for all those years, and how she could have chosen to live in ease rather than anxiety.

Where else in our lives can we choose joy?

Photo credit: Boston Public Library on Unsplash