We all worry about different things in our lives. For most of us worry is just a small part of our busy daily lives. For some of us, though, worry can impair our decision making abilities. Fear of what may or may not happen or fear of the consequences of making a wrong decision can begin to hamper our ability to handle decision making properly. Some worry is good because it helps us focus on how we should make certain decisions to avoid negative outcomes in our lives. Some worry keeps us vigilant to look out for and be prepared for the occurrence of certain events. But if we worry about too much in our life or if we spend too much of our time worrying about what may or may not happen, then worry begins to become unhealthy, it can take over our lives. Here are some things to think about when dealing with worry.

1. Remember 99 percent of what you worry about doesn’t eventually occur. Filter out the improbable. Focus on the one percent that is most likely to occur.

2. Only spend a limited amount of time thinking about concerns you might have on any one issue. If you have an idea of what might happen, write it down and then note what options you can take to deal with the issue if it does happen. If you start beginning to worry about it again, review your notes to assure yourself you have already decided the best way to handle the situation. Make changes as necessary to your solution as facts or circumstances change.

3. Think about what is at the root of your worrying. Is there a common thread or theme that weaves through your worries. For example if you worry more about financial problems than anything else, take some proactive steps to improve your finances to reduce your overall worry.

4. Unless facts in your life change don’t fixate on the potential for a certain event to occur. The likelihood of something happening only changes if the facts change. Train yourself to adapt your mental focus to the most immediate issues that need your attention. Worrying about issues that are not yet ripe for you to make a decision, is just a waste of your energy.

5. Don’t get stuck in a worry loop. Develop outlets like reading, conversation with close friends, or exercise to help you filter out the worry and help you move on to another thought process.

Extended worry can consume a lot of energy and over time wear you down both physically and mentally. Stay sharp by getting enough rest, eating healthy and focusing on those things in your life that you can control. Remember, worrying about layers of uncertain events is unproductive. Worrying about things that may likely impact you in the near future helps you stay focused and can lead you along the proper decision making path.