The Power of Yet: A New Perspective on Anxiety and Self-Compassion

Anxiety is something most of us experience at one point or another. It’s our mind’s way of responding to stress, showing up as worry, nervousness, or fear. In small doses, anxiety can actually be helpful, keeping us alert and focused. But when it becomes constant or overwhelming, it can take a serious toll on our mental and emotional well-being.

One common yet overlooked root of anxiety is perfectionism. That pressure to get everything “just right” can leave us feeling stuck, frustrated, and never quite good enough. This pursuit of flawlessness often intensifies anxiety and makes it harder to give ourselves the grace we need.

That’s where the concept of “The Power of Yet” comes in.

Popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, “yet” invites us to adopt a growth mindset. Instead of saying, “I’m not good at this,” we say, “I’m not good at this yet.” It’s a small word that makes a big difference. It shifts our focus from immediate success to lifelong progress.

So how can you begin embracing the Power of Yet?

• Notice Your Inner Dialogue: When you catch yourself in self-doubt, add “yet” to the sentence.

• Set Realistic Goals: Break big goals into smaller steps and celebrate each milestone.

• Celebrate Progress: Give yourself credit for the little wins—they matter.

An equally important part of managing anxiety is self-compassion. Instead of beating yourself up for falling short, speak to yourself like you would a good friend. It’s okay to struggle. It’s okay to take your time.

Community support also plays a vital role. Whether through therapy, friendships, or support groups, talking about your experience reminds you that you’re not alone, and that in itself can ease anxiety’s grip.

Lastly, try practicing mindfulness. Being present in the moment helps you gently acknowledge your anxious thoughts without letting them control you.

Final Thought: Anxiety doesn’t mean you’re broken, it means you’re human. When we replace pressure with patience and perfection with progress, we begin to heal. So if you're not there yet, take heart: you're on your way.