How many of us are natural born worriers? I believe I am, but I'm not sure. I'll try not to let it worry me;-). My daughter says I worry if I can't find something to worry about. Last week I learned of an anxiety disorder called Generalized Anxiety Disorder(GAD) which is a condition marked by a perpetual state of worry about most aspects of life. While we all fret about careers, money, family and health people with GAD are constantly stressed and worried about everything and anything! I don't think I'm that bad so I'm probably just average.

The problems of daily life can sometimes be so overwhelming we can't sleep and find ourselves seeking solace and solutions through behavior detrimental to our health. A chain of reaction: Company profits go down...lay off...questions: how will I: pay bills, feed family, maintain my home...stress and worry kick in...look for comfort in: food, drinks, drugs. Face it we live in tough economic times. I didn't know how tough until I read that a man was beaten and robbed for a bologna sandwich! On white bread with mayo! Yuck! Probably wasn't even Oscar Mayer! Not even a slice of cheese!

Until today I didn't realize I take on responsibilities that I shouldn't. For instance I took on trying to care for 2 adults. One couldn't care for self and the other wasn't trying and they were both abusive. My daughter also says I'm a nurturer which is sometimes it's not such a good quality because while you're giving love, care and concern the objects of those actions are doing nothing more than taking advantage of you. When you realize this, it's time to cut them loose and move on!

I have made it a goal to live as stress and worry free as I can. I try not to get anxious any more and I start my day with prayer and this:
"Dear God, I give you control as I begin this day. Help me to remember that nothing can come along that You and I can't handle together as long as You're in charge. I give you the keys and I'll sit back and enjoy the ride and the view!"

Something else: rid yourself of clutter. We clean out the basement, storage room, attic, garage, desk, closet, car trunks, even that little what-not drawer in the kitchen. How about your mind? Joyce Meyer has this to say in "Starting Your Day Right":

"Sometimes we complicate our life by taking on things that God has not told us to do. We add stress, confusion and clutter with the unnecessary things we take on and hold on to. We need to use our faith to let go of whatever clutters our mind and keeps us from peace.
Ask God to show you ways to simplify your life.
Take an inventory today, and start throwing out whatever is filling your life with unproductive distractions. God wants you to enjoy your day, so get rid of whatever He shows you to give up."

OK, SparkPeople...LET'S CLEAN HOUSE!