Yesterday, we were shocked when a job opportunity fell on our lap. This job would require some major life adjustments. Adjustments that are nerve wracking, even if you don't suffer from chronic anxiety. It has many advantages that make it very appealing, such as living by the beach, having our housing and car paid for, having a nanny or maid, etc. However, this job would require uprooting our family and putting us not in another state, but another country. We would reside for two years in Abu Dhabi, which is close to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

Do you ever feel like you have taken on so much in your life that there is just not enough time in the day to do it all? Lately, I am constantly behind on assignments. Every time I turn a corner I see half-finished projects, things needing to get in the mail, "overdue" pop-ups on my computer, etc. I have so much to do, yet I am sitting here not even sure where I should start and feel like I am just wasting valuable time.

Imagine you are on a beautiful island, surrounded by palm trees, sand, and the soothing sounds of the ocean. How could anyone be anxious in a place like that? Yet, several years ago, when Mr. T and I went on vacation to the beautiful islands of Maui and Kauai, each day began with horrible panic attacks. I was sick the entire trip. Ever since then,  I get really bad travel anxiety when traveling far from home.

Years ago, I tracked my anxious thoughts in a journal to define my triggers and reduce my negative thinking. Triggers are fears or situations that bring your anxiety to a heightened state. For example, speaking in public, riding in elevators, writing a check, or driving on freeways may trigger anxiety for some people. Eating in public around others has always been a big trigger for me.