Today I had my annual performance review. While I've never had a poor review I've always been very anxious about them. This morning, after I got up, I thought about the 6 steps. I was ready to accept and recognize any anxiety, breathe, use positive self-talk, distract myself, and use humor. But, you know what? I had no anxiety whatsover in the morning, going to the review, or even during the review. I take this to mean that my anxiety knew it was beat even before it had a chance to appear so it just didn't bother!

Boy that's encouraging Mark. I just started the second session today. I noticed my anxiety a little less at church. But still pretty high at and before and after meetings. I tried to just breathe and tell myself that it was just anxiety and that it would pass, and it has. I even song and spoke louder at church just to face the fear of someone actually hearing my voice. It was a uncomfortable feeling but a new one so it was good.

That's a huge step, Beckman. Just noticing the lessened anxiety must be a wonder feeling! And then taking the risk you did, well, good for you! Before long, you'll be drowning out all the other voices!

Well, I finally figured out why I wasn't seeing any postings. Everyone went on to session 2 while I was still looking at session 1 postings. I feel left behind. I think I figured it out now how to keep up. Mark, your progress is great after only 1 to 2 weeks. Beckman, I went to church also but didn't sing out loud. Thanks to you, I have finally figured out why I don't sing at church. Maybe next week. I am starting on session 3 today & hope to hear from everyone on how they are doing.

I've done well today but probably because I have managed to avoid some people. It can be so hard to see and talk to some people because of the stress they provide. I listen to the tapes while driving - i drive alot with my part time job and I like the tapes. I like how everyone is so honest. I just feel like sleeping.

Jim -- Glad you found us! I'll see you in the session 3 forum in a couple of days!

Tryingit -- I haven't tried listening to my CDs in my car yet. But you've inspired me. I think I'll try it and see if I like it. Sleep well!

M

I am in Session 2 as well and am also noticing a difference. Last Friday, I went to a meeting with my sons tutor at a learning center all by myself, which I wouldn't normally do. I then went across to the street and went to the mall and several other stores shopping all by myself, again!!!! Something I haven't done in quite a while...Off and on I would feel that weird derealization feeling I get, that tends to cause my panic and I just told myself what they say in the tapes. I can do this even if I feel weird. No one else can tell that I feel weird, and I can function this way too and it kind of went away. Isn't that cool???????? I was so proud of myself!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today I was able to answer the phone without panicing. (My husband is a truck driver. He constantly calls and gives me things to do. I usually start stressing out the minute the phone rings, because I don't need anything else to do.) It's like seeing a light at the end of a tunnel, knowing I am getting better.

Lykimber -- that is absolutely wonderful! You deserve to be proud of yourself! Way to go!

Lendy -- terriffic! It won't be long now before you step entirely out of the tunnel!

I want to say congratulations to all of you. I love to see the progress, it inspires me to keep going. Thank you and CONGRATULATIONS!

HUGS to all,
Melissa

Congrats on your performance review! Well deserved.

I have noticed that my breathing is becoming deeper and more automatic from the stomach area.

Doing the relaxation CD, I feel amazed at the tension I carry in my hands. Like I'm hanging on for dear life. I have severe arthritis in my right hand. I really like the part in the relaxation CD where we do a body scan with warm healing energy and send vibrations to the tense areas. At least that's my interpretation.

Wanda