Things I Tell Myself to Dial Down Anxiety (In racing and writing)

1. This isn’t your only chance to get it right.

2. You’ve prepared for this. Trust your preparation.

3. Draw energy from the nerves. That’s what they’re there for.

4. You’ll have fun once you get started.

5. Remember the people in your life that give it meaning.

6. Set a goal you have control over rather than one you don’t have control over.

7. Refuse the temptation to see others as competitors and see them instead as friends along the way to make your hard path a little easier and commiserate with you.

8. Take a moment to be grateful for where you are.

9. Remember how far you’ve come to get here.

10. Avoid self-sabotage as an easy relief from the stress.