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Conquer Fear and Anxiety With Some Simple Changes
How to rebuild your mind, body, and spirit by shifting your focus
During a recent round-robin Pickleball tournament, I heard my name yelled out across the courts. We were between matches, and my team partner, the two opposing players, and the referee were calling me over to begin the doubles match.
Oops. Once again, I held up the play because I was engaged in a lively chat with other acquaintances I’d met during my newfound pickleball passion. What happened to me? I was never a chatter.
It’s important to note that passion does not equate to proficiency. I was slow picking up the game, but I’ve improved exponentially and achieved a few proud wins. The progress is especially key, as I’ve never engaged in competitive team sports. I’ve always realized the value of athletic practice, so I did solitary activities like swimming, distance running, and biking, where I compete with myself. I’m 67 and in better shape than my 20s and 30s.
I suffered my whole life with debilitating social anxiety. The idea of dropping the proverbial ball and letting down an entire team terrified me. Holding a baseball bat in my hands and having all eyes on me was a horrific prospect, albeit an irrational fear. There was little distinction between performance in the…
