Before I agree to go somewhere, try something new, or even decide what to eat, I have to be able to picture myself doing it first.

If someone suggests a restaurant and I can’t see myself there, I immediately feel uneasy and anxious because I can’t prepare myself for something I can’t imagine.

The same thing happens with activities, experiences, and even everyday decisions—I often mentally rehearse them first so I know what to expect.

If I can’t picture myself there, I feel unprepared for what might happen and extremely anxious, even if it’s something I’ve done before and will probably enjoy.

The strange part is that once I can see myself doing it, the anxiety usually fades and I even become excited to do whatever it is.