7 micro-decisions anxious people make before even leaving their house

Ever heard the phrase, “small decisions make big differences”?

If you think about it, it’s quite true.

Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding one, every decision you make can impact your business— and your life. But what about those who struggle with anxiety?

Well, they face a whole different set of micro-decisions before they even step out the door each morning.

This article aims to shed some light on these often-overlooked everyday choices. We’ve compiled a list of seven micro-decisions anxious individuals make before leaving their house.

And who knows? You might even recognize some of these micro-decisions in your own routine.

Let’s delve into the world of micro-decisions and see what we can uncover. Trust me; it’s worth the read.

1) Picking the perfect outfit

What to wear?

It seems like a simple question, right?

But for someone with anxiety, this could be a micro-decision that takes a considerable amount of time and thought. They may worry about how they’ll be perceived, whether their choice is appropriate for the day’s tasks, or if they’ll feel comfortable in it all day long.

This micro-decision isn’t just about fashion or comfort. It’s about feeling prepared and confident to face the world outside. It’s about gaining a sense of control over an environment that often feels unpredictable.

Next time you’re stressing over your wardrobe, remember – you’re not alone in this. And more importantly, it’s okay to take your time. After all, every great decision starts with a well-thought-out choice.

2) Planning the route

Now, let’s talk about something I’ve personally grappled with – deciding the best route to take.

Sounds trivial? Not for someone dealing with anxiety.

I remember this one time I had to attend a networking event. The venue was in a part of town I wasn’t familiar with. Even though it was a straightforward drive according to Google Maps, my mind was filled with ‘what if’ scenarios.

What if there’s unexpected traffic? What if I take a wrong turn and get lost? What if I can’t find parking?

This micro-decision had me pouring over maps, checking real-time traffic updates, and even considering alternate modes of transport.

This wasn’t just about navigating the city. It was about managing my anxiety around unpredictability and unfamiliarity. It was about arriving at the venue feeling calm and collected, ready to network and make meaningful connections.

So, if you, like me, spend a little extra time charting your course each day, know that it’s more than okay. It’s your way of ensuring your day starts on the right note, and that’s nothing to be embarrassed about.

3) Setting multiple alarms

Have you ever found yourself setting not one, not two, but maybe even three alarms to ensure you wake up on time?

I bet you’re nodding.

It’s not that we love the sound of alarms. Or that we’re deep sleepers. It’s the fear of oversleeping, of running late, or being perceived as irresponsible that keeps us tapping ‘add alarm’.

I’ve lost count of the times I’ve done this. And no, it’s not because I’m a fan of the ‘snooze’ button. It’s a safety net, a buffer against the unforeseen and uncontrollable elements that could disrupt our schedule.

You see, in our heads, those extra alarms are more than just noise-makers. They’re our first line of defense in a world that often feels chaotic and unpredictable.

So yes, it may seem excessive to others. But for us, it’s just one of the many ways we cope with our anxiety and navigate through our day. It’s our way of saying, “I got this.”

4) Preparing for small talk

Ever rehearsed a conversation in your head before it even happened?

Whether it’s a chat with the barista at your local coffee shop or a quick catch-up with a colleague in the elevator, small talk can be daunting for anxious individuals.

We might ponder over what to say, how to say it, or how the other person might respond. It’s like conducting a whole imaginary conversation in our minds before the actual one takes place.

And here’s why.

Making small talk requires spontaneity, something that doesn’t come easily when you’re constantly second-guessing yourself. So, we prepare for it, rehearse it – not because we love to talk, but because we want to fit in, to feel normal and connected.

If you find yourself mentally scripting your next small talk scenario, remember – it’s just another way of dealing with anxiety. It’s okay to prepare for these moments because, at the end of the day, we all want to feel connected and understood.

5) Checking the weather

You might be surprised to learn that weather has a significant impact on our mood and behavior.

Checking the forecast might seem like a common routine, but for anxious individuals, it goes beyond just deciding if they need an umbrella for the day.

We might obsessively check the forecast to mentally prepare ourselves for the potential mood shifts, plan our outfits, or even adjust our schedules.

It’s not just about avoiding a downpour or dressing appropriately; it’s about gaining a sense of control over something as unpredictable as the weather.

Sure, we can’t change what Mother Nature has in store for us, but knowing what to expect helps us feel more in control and less anxious about the day ahead.

So, if you’re constantly refreshing your weather app, know that it’s perfectly okay. After all, being prepared is never a bad thing.

6) Packing a ‘just in case’ bag

It’s not uncommon for anxious individuals to have a ‘just in case’ bag.

You know, that little bag filled with items that might come in handy in various scenarios – extra medication, a favorite snack, a comforting book, or even a spare change of clothes.

We carry these items around not because we’re overly cautious, but because they provide us with a sense of comfort and security in an unpredictable world. They’re our safety nets, our little reminders that we’re prepared for whatever the day throws at us.

And you know what? That’s completely fine.

If you have a ‘just in case’ bag, don’t feel embarrassed or apologetic about it. Instead, see it as an act of self-care. It’s your way of showing kindness to yourself, of telling yourself, “I’ve got your back.” And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

7) Rehearsing exits

Our final point might surprise you.

Anxious individuals often rehearse their exits before entering any situation. It’s like having an escape plan, knowing exactly how to leave a place if things get too overwhelming.

Does it sound a bit extreme? Perhaps. But it’s not about running away. It’s about knowing there’s a way out, a safety valve of sorts.

It’s about managing our anxiety in the best way we know how.

Remember, everyone has their own ways of coping with the world around them. And this is just one of ours.

Embracing the journey

If you identify with these micro-decisions, know this – you’re not alone.

We all have our unique ways of navigating life’s uncertainties, and it’s these differences that make us who we are.

If you find yourself making these small decisions each day, try not to see them as burdens. Instead, view them as tools, your personal ‘roadmap’ to managing anxiety and embracing the world outside.

Remember, growth doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a journey, with each step leading us closer to understanding ourselves better.

So be patient with yourself. Celebrate your small victories. And most importantly, remember that it’s okay to take it one micro-decision at a time.

Because at the end of the day, it’s these small choices that lead to big changes. And they’re what make you – well – you.