I am learning so much from little kids right now. Did you know that anxiety and excitement are the same from a physiological standpoint? They both activate the sympathetic nervous system, triggering the “fight or flight” response in our bodies. This could include increased heart rate, rapid breathing, adrenaline release, sweaty hands and feet, and stomach butterflies. The difference between the two is our thoughts aligned with these feelings. Is this fear or anticipation?
A little girl suggested we look at these feelings as our inner cheerleader. This fight or flight response is our body cheering us on, our inner applause! These feelings are encouraging and empowering us in anticipation of trying something new rather than sitting in a space of fear.
So, now my new motto has expanded to, “Do It Scared with Your Inner Applause”.