Have you ever worried about an upcoming phone call, a future presentation, or a pending decision with a client? Have you ever worried about your performance at a previous meeting or presentation? Or, perhaps you've fretted over a comment expressed by a client. If so, you're not alone. People often worry about past or future events.

A small amount of concern–emphasis on small–can be beneficial if it urges you to review your strategy and look for ways to improve. But, when worry begins to fill your day, it clouds your thinking and diverts your attention from current tasks and real issues to imagined scenarios, which rarely develop, or past events over which you no longer have control. It obscures your judgment and prevents logical, objective analysis. Worry is not a healthy emotion, and worrying is not a constructive activity.

Worrying about future events can be avoided with intelligent organization. Designate a specific amount of time for planning and preparation for future events. Then, schedule the time so it doesn't interfere with other normal activities. Finally, and most importantly, give yourself permission to keep to the schedule…and then LET IT GO!

Worrying about past events can be avoided by accepting the possibility of a less than perfect outcome. Sometimes, your undertakings will be carried out flawlessly…exactly as planned, and you'll achieve your desired result. That's good. Other times, the outcomes won't be so ideal. That's not so good, but it is part of the human experience. ACCEPT IT! No amount of worrying will change it.

You can further minimize worry by thoughtfully planning your week and then prioritizing and organizing your daily activities. If today's activities are well organized, you should be able to start tomorrow's activities without worrying about what took place today. And, if tomorrow's activities are thoughtfully planned, you should be able to complete today's activities without worrying about what will happen tomorrow.