Recognize the anxiety: The first step is to acknowledge that the anxiety is present and that it might be influencing your perception. Understanding that anxious thoughts are not always accurate can help create a mental distance from them.
Practice grounding techniques: Engage in grounding exercises to reconnect with the present moment. This can help anchor you in reality when anxiety is making your thoughts feel chaotic. Examples of grounding techniques include focusing on your breath, naming objects in your surroundings, or using sensory awareness exercises.
Seek evidence: Challenge the anxious thoughts by looking for evidence that supports or contradicts them. Often, anxiety thrives on uncertainty and negative assumptions. Try to objectively assess the evidence for and against the anxious thoughts.
Talk to someone: Share your thoughts and feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or therapist. Verbalizing your concerns can provide a fresh perspective and help you sort out what's real from what's anxiety-driven.
Journaling: Write down your anxious thoughts and feelings. Sometimes, putting them on paper can help you gain clarity and a more objective view of the situation.
Mindfulness and meditation: Engage in mindfulness practices to cultivate self-awareness and observe your thoughts without judgment. Meditation can help you become more attuned to your intuition and distinguish it from anxious thoughts.
Create a safe space: Find a calm and quiet place where you can reflect and center yourself. This could be a physical space or a mental retreat you create in your mind.
Take a break from decision-making: If possible, postpone making major decisions when anxiety is overwhelming. Allow yourself time to process and gain clarity before acting.
Challenge perfectionism: INFJs, in particular, may struggle with perfectionism, which can fuel anxiety. Recognize that nobody is perfect, and it's okay to make mistakes or face uncertainty.
Cultivate self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it's normal to experience anxiety. Avoid self-criticism and practice self-compassion to counter the anxious thoughts.
Seek professional help: If anxiety is significantly impacting your life and ability to trust your intuition, consider seeking support from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance and help you work through the challenges.
Remember that overcoming anxiety and returning to your intuitive self may take time and effort. Be patient with yourself and practice these strategies consistently. Additionally, consider exploring other coping techniques that resonate with you personally.