3min snip

The Mel Robbins Podcast cover image

6 Magic Words That Stop Anxiety & Overwhelm

The Mel Robbins Podcast

ADVICE

Stop the Second Arrow

šŸ’Ŗ Interrupt negative thought spirals: "So why on earth are you causing yourself this pain?" Life throws challenges (the first arrow). Our reflexive negativity (the second arrow) amplifies suffering.

šŸ§  Challenge assumptions: When anxious, ask yourself: "If something bad hasn't happened, how does worrying about it help you right now?" Worrying rarely improves outcomes.

šŸ§˜ Reframe with 'what ifs': "What if it all works out?" Instead of catastrophizing, explore potential positive outcomes. This shifts focus from fear to possibility.

šŸŽÆ Focus on the present: Worrying about the future or past inflicts pain twice. Stay grounded in the now.

šŸ’” Accept uncertainty: Anticipating a negative event is often worse than the actual experience.

Key Takeaway: Don't add to your suffering. Stop firing the second arrow of negativity. Accept uncertainty and focus on what you can control.

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