Self-Help Psychology Personal Development

How to Stop Worrying and Start Living (Summary)

by Dale Carnegie

Willis H. Carrier, the brilliant engineer who launched the air-conditioning industry, was once so paralyzed by worry over a failing business venture that he couldn't sleep or eat. On the verge of a total breakdown, he devised a simple, three-step 'magic formula' that not only dissolved his anxiety instantly but also saved his company and turned a $20,000 potential loss into a $15,000 profit. This book is a collection of such formulas for conquering worry.

Live in Day-Tight Compartments

The most effective way to eliminate anxiety is to metaphorically seal off the past and the future, allowing you to focus all your energy and intelligence on living just one day at a time.

Famed physician Sir William Osler got this idea after observing the massive, watertight compartments on an ocean liner. He resolved to run his life like that ship, starting each day by 'shutting the iron doors' on yesterday's regrets and tomorrow's fears. He credited this single habit as the main secret to his success and peace of mind.

Analyze and Accept the Worst-Case Scenario

To solve a worrying problem, first figure out the absolute worst that could happen. Second, mentally accept that outcome. Finally, with your mind now calm and free from panic, dedicate your energy to improving upon that worst-case scenario.

When Earl P. Haney, an oil-equipment salesman, was being blackmailed for $5,000, he was sick with worry. He applied this formula: the worst case was the blackmailer would reveal his affair, ruining his business. He accepted it, deciding he'd just find a new job. Having accepted the worst, he calmly went to the district attorney, who had the blackmailer arrested. The problem was solved with zero fallout.

Crowd Worry Out with Purposeful Action

It is a fundamental law of psychology that a mind cannot think about more than one thing at a time. By keeping yourself constantly engaged in positive, constructive activities, you leave no mental space for worry to take hold.

During the intense pressure of World War II, Winston Churchill regularly worked 18-hour days. When asked if he ever worried about his immense responsibilities, he replied, 'I'm too busy. I have no time for worry.' His relentless schedule of meetings, planning, and dictating memos effectively crowded out any potential for anxiety.

Use the Law of Averages to Defeat Fear

Most of our worries are about things that have an extremely low probability of ever happening. By looking at the actual statistics and facts, you can often prove to yourself how ridiculous your fears are.

During WWII, the U.S. Navy was concerned about the morale of sailors on oil tankers, who feared dying in a fire if the ship was torpedoed. The Navy produced the hard data: of 100 ships hit, only 5 would sink within 10 minutes, leaving ample time to escape. By showing the sailors that the 'law of averages was on their side,' their fear was dramatically reduced.

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