The Emotional Toolkit Monthly - Are You A Worry Wart?

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The Emotional Toolkit Monthly

Practical Strategies to Boost Your Happiness, Health & Longevity

March 2008

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In This Issue:

-- Are You A Worry Wart?

-- Tip of the Month

-- In the News

Are You A Worry Wart?

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Claire is a worrier, and she has a pet peeve. "I hate when people say, 'Stop worrying, it'll be fine.' How do they know it will be fine? Are they psychic?"

Maybe, Claire, you don't need a crystal ball to know that your worst fears probably won't materialize. Mark Twain knew this when he said, "I've spent most of my life worrying about things that never happened." And he's right. Scienctists have figured that 85% of the things we worry about never occur.

You're probably wondering, But what about that other 15%? It's true that life can throw us some duzzies. And it's easy to obsess about how bad things can get. For some people, worrying can even be soothing because it feels like you're doing something useful to tackle your problems.

But the truth is, the best remedy for worry is action. Afraid you'll be the next one layed off in your office? Talk with your boss. Concerned about the state of your relationship? Have a heart to heart with your mate or see a counselor. Of course, there will always be those fear-inducing dilemmas for which no action can be taken like worrying whether it will rain on your summer vacation. In those circumstances, all you can do is focus on what you can control, and bring an umbrella.

Tip of the Month

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Here are 2 ways to Quit the Worry Club:

Tackle Your Fears: People worry because they believe that if their worst fear comes true, they won't be able to handle it. That's why you've got to beef up your coping skills. When those worrying thoughts start swirling in your head, go for a walk, do some deep breathing, or call a friend. As Jon Kabat-Zinn says, "You can't stop the waves, but you can learn to surf."

Challenge Your Thoughts: When we worry, we think about the future and all that could go wrong there - "What if this job falls through?" or "What if they don't like me?" That's the time to put yourself in charge of your scary scenario by asking these questions: "What's the worst that can happen?" "How will I handle that?" and "If I can't change the outcome, how can I deal with it?"

In the News

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Your Happiest Life:
A New Blog

Dr. Mininni is excited to announce her new blog, "Your Happiest Life." The blog will feature articles, links, and recommendations to live your happiest and healthiest life.

Check it out, and tell a friend! http://yourhappiestlife.blogspot.com.

In The Store
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10 Minutes-A-Day For More Happiness

Would you like to rewire your brain for happiness using a proven ancient meditation practice? Just 10 minutes a day is all it takes. And if you're really busy, you can meditate in the shower, on line at the airport, or when you're brushing your teeth. To listen to an excerpt or order, click here.

About Dr. Darlene Mininni
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Dr. Darlene Mininni is the author of The Emotional Toolkit and creator of UCLA's acclaimed emotional education course. She has a PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Masters degree in Public Health. Through her keynotes, writing and one-day workshops, Dr. Mininni teaches people of all ages practical strategies to boost their happiness, health and longevity. Woman's World Magazine describes her emotional toolkit as "Cutting-edge advice...that really works." She's appeared on CNN, NPR and PBS and been quoted in SELF, COSMO, Woman's Day, Marie Claire, Ladies Home Journal and Prevention.

Darlene Mininni, Ph.D., M.P.H.

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email: dmininni@emotionaltoolkit.com

web: http://www.emotionaltoolkit.com

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