Anxiety is an ancient emotion because it helped keep us alive throughout history. It’s basically a threat appraisal. – Morra Aarons-Mele
Statistics indicate that as many as 1 in 5 adults currently suffer from anxiety and almost ⅓ will experience an anxiety disorder some time in their life. However, that doesn’t make the topic any easier to discuss. In The Anxious Achiever: Turn Your Biggest Fears into Your Superpower, Morra Aarons-Mele tackles the topic in a way that acknowledges the feeling and helps the reader to see that maybe they are not alone…especially in regards to leadership. In fact, she tells the story of being invited to a fellowship of speakers, CEOs, and thought leaders and introducing herself by sharing her doubt that she belonged to which other members quickly assured her that imposter syndrome was one of the requirements!
So many leaders are plagued with anxiety and other issues related to perfectionism and self-doubt. In fact, for many, the anxiety itself can appear to be further evidence of not being enough. Yet, readers of Morra’s book will find peace in her approach – she doesn’t just acknowledge the anxiety; she doesn’t just try to get past it. She has learned “to manage it and take advantage of its hidden gifts.”
While the first section of this book helps readers to get to know their anxiety and its foundation, the second part of the book really delves into tools for managing anxiety in life and in the workplace. Readers will work through the thought traps, negative self-talk, and other bad habits that have fed into their frustration and served as the “foundation” for imposter syndrome. This book is an encouragement to be ourselves, embrace our strengths and weaknesses, and be the best leaders we can be…anxieties and all!
I’ve come to think my anxiety and I are actually in successful negotiation, and we’re trying to make this relationship work. – Morra Aarons-Mele