Am I Doing This Right? Existential Anxiety and the Fear of Missing the Mark
Have you ever felt paralyzed about making a huge life decision such as getting married or spent hours agonizing over which classes to take next year, terrified of making a mistake that could mess up your whole future? If you’ve felt this kind of paralyzing indecision or a nagging fear that you’re not making the “right” choices, you might be experiencing existential anxiety.
What is existential anxiety?
It’s like that feeling you get when you’re playing a video game without any instructions. You know you’re supposed to be doing something, but you have no clue what it is or how to win. Existential anxiety is that same feeling but about life itself. It’s the worry that we’re not living up to our potential, that we’re not on the right path, or that we’re missing out on something important.
Why do we worry about getting it right?
We live in a world that’s constantly telling us there’s a “right” way to do things. We’re bombarded with messages about the perfect career, the perfect body, the perfect relationship. Social media shows us everyone else’s highlight reel, making us feel like we’re falling behind.
Plus, as we get older, we start to realize that our choices have consequences. What if we pick the wrong college? What if we marry the wrong person? The pressure to make the “right” decision can feel overwhelming.
The truth about getting it right
Here’s the thing: there’s no single “right” way to live life. Everyone’s path is different, and what works for one person might not work for another. There are going to be ups and downs, twists and turns. The important thing is to learn and grow along the way.
It’s okay to make mistakes. In fact, mistakes can be our greatest teachers. They show us what we’re capable of and help us figure out what we truly want.
How therapy can help
Talking to a therapist can be super helpful if you’re struggling with existential anxiety. They can help you explore your fears and anxieties in a safe space, without judgment. They can also teach you coping skills to manage your worries and help you find a sense of purpose and meaning in your life.
How to cope with existential anxiety
- Be kind to yourself: Cut yourself some slack! It’s okay not to have all the answers.
- Talk about it: Share your feelings with someone you trust. It can be a huge relief to know you’re not alone.
- Check-in with yourself: Take a moment to reflect on how you feel about your life right now. Are you generally happy? Remember the reasons you chose to be where you are and what you value most.
- Focus on your values: What’s truly important to you? What kind of person do you want to be? Focusing on your values can help you make decisions that align with your true self, even when you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed.
- Seek professional help: If your anxiety is affecting your daily life, a therapist can help you develop coping skills and find a sense of peace.
We Can Help You on Your Journey. Start Working With An Anxiety Therapist in Atlanta, GA
At Informed Therapy Group, our therapists specialize in anxiety, and we understand the unique challenges of existential anxiety. We’re here to help you navigate your fears, find your own path, and live a life without constant doubt and questioning. Reach out to us today to take the first step towards a more fulfilling life. Start your therapy journey with our team by following these simple steps:
- Reach out for a free consultation
- Meet with a caring therapist from our team
- Start coping with existential anxiety
Other Services Offered with Informed Therapy
Anxiety therapy isn’t the only service offered by Informed Therapy Group. We understand that you may be struggling with more than one mental health concern. This is why we are happy to offer support with therapy for depression, therapy for stress management, Postpartum therapy, and therapy for grief and loss. We also specialize in couples therapy and pregnancy counseling. To learn more about Informed Therapy read About Us, FAQs, and our blog!
