Make a Date—with Anxiety

What If You Scheduled a Date… with Your Anxiety?

Yes, a date.
Not with a person. Not with a project.
With your anxiety.

Anxiety loves to lurk in the background. It creeps in while you’re trying to work, have a conversation, drive, study, or even relax. It whispers worries while you’re doing your best to stay focused on something else.

But what happens when you turn around and face it directly?

Try This: A 10-Minute Mirror Date with Anxiety

Here’s the tool I want to share today. Set aside 10 minutes—and only 10 minutes. Choose a quiet space with a mirror. Stand there, look yourself in the eye, and say:

“Okay, anxiety. I see you. What are you trying to tell me?”

Start naming the thoughts:

“You’re worried about this conversation I have tomorrow.”
“You’re afraid of messing up that project at work.”
“You’re scared something bad will happen if I let my guard down.”

Let it all come out. Speak it aloud. No distractions—no phone, no music, no multitasking. Just you, your reflection, and the full presence of your anxious thoughts.

This may feel strange at first (I get it—I’m doing this challenge too and have had my own moments of self-consciousness!). But stick with it.

Why It Works

Anxiety tends to lose power when we face it head-on. The thoughts that haunt you in the background can start to feel less overwhelming when they’re pulled into the light. You’ll likely find that the fear loses some of its steam when you give it intentional, focused time.

It’s like turning to face a wave instead of letting it crash into you from behind.