7 things you’re worrying about that won’t actually matter in the long-run

Tina Fey by Tina Fey | July 23, 2024, 12:19 pm

We all have our share of worries, right? It’s a part of being human.

But have you ever stopped to consider how many of your worries are really worth your time and energy?

Here’s a thought.

Many of the things we fret over – from that awkward conversation at the water cooler to the fear of missing out on the latest trends – aren’t likely to matter in the grand scheme of things.

So, if you’re caught up in a cycle of stress and anxiety, taking a step back to reassess could be your game-changer.

In this article, we’re going to explore 7 common worries that, believe it or not, won’t actually matter in the long run.

And who knows?

This might just be the reality check you need to stop sweating the small stuff and start focusing on what truly counts. Stay tuned!

1) That embarrassing moment

We’ve all been there.

That time you tripped in the office hallway. Or when you called your boss by the wrong name during a meeting. Remember how your cheeks burned with embarrassment?

Here’s the good news.

Chances are, you’re the only one who’s still hanging onto that memory. In reality, people are usually too wrapped up in their own lives to remember every little mistake you’ve made.

2) Not being the best at everything

I’ll let you in on a little secret.

Once upon a time, I used to stress myself out trying to be the best at everything. The best employee, the best friend, the best at keeping my house immaculate…the list was endless.

Guess what?

I soon realized that this pursuit of perfection was not only exhausting but also, quite frankly, unrealistic. No one can be the best at everything, and that’s okay.

The truth is, it’s more important to be the best version of yourself rather than trying to outdo everyone else in every aspect of life. You’re unique in your own way and that’s something to celebrate rather than worry about.

In essence, authenticity and self-acceptance matter more than perfection ever will.

3) Trying to please everyone

Let’s face it.

There will always be people who don’t agree with your choices, who question your decisions, or who simply don’t like you. And that’s okay.

I used to lose sleep over this, constantly tweaking my actions, my words, and even my personality to fit into someone else’s mold. But no matter how hard I tried, there would always be someone I couldn’t please.

And then it hit me.

It’s not my job to make everyone happy. It’s not your job either.

It’s liberating when you realize this. You stop bending over backward for other people’s approval and start living for yourself. You start making choices that align with your values, not someone else’s expectations.

And the best part?

The worry of not being liked by everyone slowly fades away.

4) Failing at something new

Let’s be real.

Diving into something new can be scary.

There’s this fear of failure, the worry that we might not be good enough or that we’ll embarrass ourselves. I remember the first time I decided to try my hand at painting. I was terrified, worried that my lack of skills would result in a laughable piece of “art”.

But here’s what I learned.

Failure isn’t the end of the world. In fact, it’s an integral part of growth.

So what if your first attempt isn’t a masterpiece? The key is to learn from it, to grow, and to keep trying.

Because when you look back, it won’t be the failures you remember. It will be the times you picked yourself up, dusted off the setback, and tried again. 

5) Missing out on the latest trends

Ever experienced FOMO – the Fear of Missing Out?

In today’s world, there’s always something new popping up around us. The latest diet fad, the current trending show, the newest tech gadget… you get the picture.

It’s easy to get swept up in the tide and start worrying that you’re being left behind.

But here’s an interesting perspective.

The “new” thing is only new until something else comes along to replace it. And that usually happens sooner than we think.

So, instead of worrying about keeping up with every trend or change, focus on what truly matters to you.

Whether it’s spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing a hobby, or simply enjoying a peaceful moment alone, these are the things that will bring lasting satisfaction.

And in the long run? Those missed trends won’t even be a blip on your radar.

6) The idea of not being “enough”

Here’s something I want you to know.

You are enough, just as you are.

In a world where we’re constantly bombarded with messages that we need more – more success, more money, more beauty – it’s easy to start feeling like we’re not enough.

I’ve felt it too. That nagging worry that I’m not smart enough, not attractive enough, not successful enough…

But let me tell you this.

Your worth is not defined by external factors. It’s not about what you have, but who you are. Your kindness, your compassion, your dedication… these are the things that define you.

So next time you catch yourself worrying about not being “enough”, consider this:

You are unique, you are valuable and yes, you are more than enough. And that’s what truly matters in the long run.

7) The fear of the unknown

Life is unpredictable. That’s a given.

We can plan and strategize all we want but ultimately, there are things beyond our control. This uncertainty can be terrifying and can cause us to worry incessantly about the future.

Worrying about the unknown does not change the outcome. It only robs us of our present joy and peace of mind.

Instead, embracing uncertainty as a part of life and learning to adapt to changes can make your journey less stressful and more rewarding.

The takeaway

If you’ve found yourself nodding along to these points, it’s clear that you’re carrying some worries that are weighing you down.

Here’s the silver lining – recognizing this is the first step towards change.

With self-awareness and a conscious shift in perspective, these worries can be replaced with a healthier, more empowering mindset. The key lies in understanding what truly matters in the long run and letting go of what doesn’t.

Begin by examining your worries. Are they serving any purpose? Or are they simply draining your energy and joy? Reflect on what truly matters to you. Is it peace of mind? Personal growth? Relationships?

Worrying doesn’t change the future, but it sure does steal the joy of the present.

It won’t be an overnight transformation. Changing ingrained habits takes time and patience.

But with each moment of recognition, with each decision to let go of a needless worry, you’re taking a step towards a more peaceful, fulfilled life.

Be kind to yourself. After all, we’re all works in progress, navigating our way through this unpredictable but beautiful thing called life.

Did you like my article? Like me on Facebook to see more articles like this in your feed.