By Dr. Larry Goodman
Anxiety and OCD can feel like an endless loop, a hamster wheel spinning faster with every worry or compulsion. As a coach, I’ve had the privilege of guiding many clients off that wheel and into a space of clarity, calm, and control. Today, I want to share a recent experience with a client who was ready to tackle his anxiety and OCD head-on—and how we worked together to rewrite his story.
Understanding the Loop
When this client first came to me, he described his life as a series of repeating cycles: intrusive thoughts that sparked overwhelming anxiety, followed by compulsive actions meant to alleviate the fear. While the compulsions offered temporary relief, they reinforced the intrusive thoughts, creating a vicious cycle. Sound familiar?
This is how anxiety and OCD operate. The nervous system becomes conditioned to respond to certain triggers, interpreting them as threats that demand immediate action. Over time, these reactions become automatic, leaving the person feeling trapped.
Step 1: Identifying the Triggers
Step 2: Challenging the Stories
Anxiety thrives on unchallenged thoughts. Together, we examined the stories he was telling himself:
“If I don’t triple-check my work, I’ll get fired.”
“If I don’t wash my hands again, I’ll get sick.”
We questioned the validity of these beliefs. What evidence supported them? What evidence contradicted them? This process helped him see that many of his fears were exaggerated or unfounded.
Step 3: Reframing and Reprogramming
With his triggers and stories laid bare, we moved on to reframing. Instead of viewing his thoughts as facts, he began to see them as just thoughts—passing events in his mind that didn’t need to dictate his actions. Using techniques rooted in nervous system regulation, I taught him how to pause, breathe, and observe his thoughts without judgment. This practice helped him disrupt the cycle and create space for new responses.
Step 4: Building New Patterns
Breaking old habits is one thing; building new ones is another. We worked on small, actionable steps to replace his compulsions with healthier behaviors. For example, instead of compulsively checking his work, he learned to set a timer for focused review sessions, followed by intentional breaks. These new patterns gave him a sense of control without feeding the anxiety loop.
The Breakthrough
One day, he came to our session and shared a story that marked a turning point. He’d encountered a triggering situation at work but, instead of spiraling, he used the tools we’d practiced. He paused, reframed his thoughts, and took a deliberate action that aligned with his values. For the first time, he felt like he was in control—not his anxiety.
Lessons for All of Us
Anxiety and OCD aren’t unique to any one person. We all have patterns of thought and behavior that don’t serve us. The key to breaking free lies in:
Awareness: Identify your triggers and the stories you’re telling yourself.
Challenge: Question the validity of your thoughts.
Reframe: See your thoughts as just thoughts, not facts.
Act: Build new patterns that align with your values and goals.
A Strong Conclusion
Anxiety and OCD don’t have to define your life. With the right tools and support, you can step off the hamster wheel and take control of your story. This journey isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. My client’s breakthrough proves that transformation is possible when you’re willing to do the work.
If you’re ready to break free from your own loops and unlock your potential, I’m here to help. Together, we can create a roadmap tailored to your unique challenges and goals. Let’s take the first step.
Start your journey today with coaching. Schedule a call at www.goodmanfactor.com.
Comentários