A little worry is not harmful, as author David Seabury reminds us in the preface to How to Worry Successfully: “It is only when apprehension is ruled by nervous anxiety, and imagination distorted by fear, that worry injures us.” And that’s why I’m worried ~ it sure seems like people are just freaking out these days. Here’s a little reminder to help identify the unhealthy worriers out there.
1936: Worry-Monger Identifier
Never accept advice from one who:
- Always sees the gloomy side of things.
- Is a gossip, a critic, or a chiseler.
- Is timid, dependent, or parasitical.
- Is indolent or self-indulgent.
- Is arrogant, fanatical, or obstinate.
- Is complaining and full of self-pity.
- Is one who becomes conveniently sick.
- Is reckless or irresponsible.
- Is censorious and eager to point out sin in others.
- Is irritable, fretful, and fussy.
- Is angry, envious, or jealous.
- Is hypersensitive and painfully good.
- Is always anxious to give his opinions.
- Is conventionally platitudinous and sentimental.
- Shows any inclination to revenge.
Source: Seabury, David. How to Worry Successfully. New York: Blue Ribbon Books, Inc., 1936.
~ pp. 182-83 ~