The Power of Mantras

I was recently asked for suggestions on how to navigate and manage through times when you are feeling work-related fear or anxiety. 

Cultivating self-compassion through affirming and encouraging inner dialog is one of my recommended strategies. To do this, it is helpful to identify and adopt meaningful mantras to say to yourself in times of self doubt.  One of my personal favorites is:

“Pressure is a privilege.”

Billie Jean King

As a life-long tennis player, this mantra is especially meaningful. When players walk into Arthur Ashe stadium at the U.S. Open, they are greeted by a plaque with this deeply meaningful quote from Billie Jean King, encouraging them to appreciate and savor the honor of performing on a global stage, even though it may feel scary.

In times when I feel anxiety and pressure to perform well, that quote helps me shift the pressure into feelings of gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to make an impact.