How to Use Anxiety to Improve Your Life
Dr. Wendy Suzuki, Neuroscientist, Professor, and Dean of the College of Arts & Science at NYU
What do you think of when you hear the word “anxiety?” Do you get a feeling of heightened alertness and that sense of doom and gloom? Anxiety is our mind’s internal warning system and it’s often characterized by fear, worry, or feelings of apprehension. When we become aware of feeling anxious, the first thing we want to do is make those uncomfortable feelings go away. But there are times when anxiety can actually work to our advantage and be a force for success, progress, and positive change in our lives. For example, in an emergency situation, anxiety could help us react faster and protect us from danger. Scientists have found that in certain situations, stress and anxiety can keep us motivated and provide an opportunity for growth or self discovery.