Worry by Earl Nightingale
It’s easier to win than to lose, and it’s easier to succeed than to worry about failing. The reason most choose the latter is because it can be done sitting down.
You know, the mind is like an adding machine: before you can solve a problem with it, it must be cleared of all previous problems. Worry jams up the mechanism. It short-circuits the whole operation, impairing the most valuable mechanism on earth.
It’s been proven many times that by a simple change in attitude and mental outlook, the same amount of time and energy devoted to worry could be used to solve our problems. Instead of worrying about the bills that have to be paid, shift gears and think creatively about ways of making more money. Instead of constantly stewing and fretting over a problem, we should try to think of ways of solving it.
Creative people look at problems as challenges. They realize that without problems everything would come to a stop. Problems are what keep the human race moving forward. Indeed, problems are responsible for every forward step we’ve ever taken—collectively or individually. All industry exists solely for the solving of our problems, as does agriculture, education, and government. People go to school to learn to solve their problems or the problems of others. We’ve all got problems, and that’s good. Without them, we’d still be swinging through the trees and living in caves.
And all problems are temporary. As the wise man said, “This too shall pass.” So, if you want to have a lot more fun and a lot less worry, try to put your problems in perspective. See yourself as part of the world, and the world as part of the universe, and the universe as part of a great and mysterious living picture. Seen in their true light, most problems shrink to a modest size. Next, choose not to worry about them. Shift your mental gears. Clear your mind of worry and direct it to the solution of the problem at hand. It has a solution. It will be solved. The same kind of problems have been solved a million times before.
This is an excerpt from Earl Nightingale’s The Direct Line, available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, 800-CEO-READ, and other fine retailers. The first beautifully packaged print edition of Nightingale’s famous audio program, this book offers a practical guide designed to help you find real and lasting success in your career, relationships, and finances. Order a copy today and begin the most exciting and rewarding journey on earth—your journey of self-discovery and personal fulfillment! Also, don’t forget the accompanying action guide, available from Amazon and Barnes & Noble!
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