Dear Dorothy,
Lately, I find myself constantly worrying about the future. I am afraid of what lies ahead, especially when it comes to my career, relationships and finances. Even when things seem fine, I cannot help but feel anxious about what might go wrong. It keeps me up at night and makes it hard to enjoy the present. I try to stay positive, but the uncertainty scares me. Am I the only one who feels this way? How can I stop being so afraid of what is to come?
Yours sincerely,
Winifred
Dear Winifred,
Thank you for writing in and for being so honest about what you are feeling. I want to reassure you straight away that you are not the only one who feels this way. Fear of the future is a very common experience, especially in a world that feels unpredictable and fast-paced.
We often feel anxious when we are not in control, and the future, by its very nature, is something we cannot fully control. It is completely normal to feel overwhelmed when thinking about all the “what ifs” life throws at us. The important thing is not to let those fears paralyse you or steal your joy in the present.
Start by focusing on what you can control. Break things down into manageable steps. If your career is worrying you, set small goals to improve your skills or update your CV. If finances are a concern, look into budgeting or speak to a financial adviser. Taking practical action gives your mind something concrete to work with and can reduce the feeling of helplessness.
It is also helpful to limit how much time you spend ruminating. Permit yourself to worry for ten minutes a day if you must, but then shift your focus to something that uplifts or grounds you. That might be a walk, a hobby, journalling or time with loved ones.
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. The future may be uncertain, but so is its potential for good. You do not have to have everything figured out right now. None of us does. Learn to trust that you will be able to handle whatever comes, just as you have handled so much already.
Take each day as it comes, and remember, you are braver than you think.
Warmest regards,
Dorothy