Use the “10-10-10 method” to know if something is worth your worry

I tend to let myself worry about everything. This wasn’t always the case, but something changed as I got older. It could be a dozen unread emails in my inbox, a disagreement with my partner, or simply finding a trustworthy friend to watch my dog for a long weekend, and still feelings of dread creep from the back of my mind. I know it’s not worth losing sleep over every little thing, but I wish I knew how to worry less and tame toxic thoughts.

The Life Pro Tips subreddit always comes through with game-changing advice, and one user recently posted a whammy to help worriers. The next time something is bothering you, use the 10-10-10 method: “Will it matter in 10 days? 10 months? 10 years? After getting some perspective, you’ll notice how very few things end up worth stressing over.”

And it’s true. How many times have you looked back and laughed over how much energy you put into worry about something that had little consequence for the future? Most of what you’re stressing about now won’t make much of a difference in your life, and so it’s not worth your time now. When you stop worrying about the small things, you’ll actually have the energy to tackle the big things that will matter in 10 days, 10 months, and/or 10 years.

Just the thought of sloughing off the weight of my worries is already making me feel a lot lighter.

Can’t remember if you unplugged your flat iron? This smartphone hack will straighten out your worries. Also, here’s how to trust your gut when you struggle with anxiety, according to mental health experts.