Limiting Worry Time
When it helps
When you notice that worries permeate your entire day and you can no longer concentrate. This method gives worries a defined place so they don't control the rest of your day.
How to practice
- Set an appointment: Deliberately reserve 10 to 15 minutes per day for your worries (e.g., 5:00 pm).
- Postpone: When a worry arises during the day, tell yourself: 'I'll deal with that at 5:00 pm.' Note it briefly and return to the present.
- Use the worry time: During the designated time, you're allowed to ruminate intensely or write down solutions.
- End it consciously: When the time is up, close the notebook or leave the room. Worry time is over for today.
- Your impulse for today: Decide right now when your 10-minute 'worry time' will take place today.
Note: You're not suppressing the worries – you're channeling them. This gives you back control over your day.