Anxiety is something many of us face, but how we perceive it can significantly impact how we manage it. Through my personal journey with my middle son, I’ve learned the transformative power of reframing anxiety—viewing it as something external rather than a part of who we are. This shift in perspective can create space, allowing us to approach anxiety with a sense of calm and control.

When we say “my anxiety,” we internalize it, making it a permanent part of our identity. But by simply calling it “the anxiety,” we create distance, viewing it as a passing cloud or storm—temporary and external. This subtle change in language can have a profound effect on how we cope with fear.

One of the most powerful lessons came from my son’s experience with stage fright. During a school concert, despite overwhelming fear, he found the courage to continue, supported by his teacher, classmates, and the audience. This year, we tackled his anxiety in a new way: by visualizing and smashing the “old CD” of fearful thoughts, replacing it with affirmations of confidence and strength.

Through this process, we discovered that true empowerment comes from within. Anxiety may come and go, but our inner strength remains constant. By shifting how we think about anxiety, we can navigate life with grace and resilience.