Anxiety-driven
Anxiety-driven describes behavior, decisions, or actions primarily motivated by feelings of anxiety, worry, fear, or nervousness. This often manifests as an intense and pervasive feeling of unease, leading individuals to make choices intended to alleviate or avoid these uncomfortable emotions. The focus is typically on minimizing perceived threats or risks, even if these are unlikely or exaggerated. Such behavior can range from mild avoidance to more extreme responses like panic attacks and is a reflection of an internal state where anxiety significantly shapes one's responses to external stimuli and internal thoughts. The underlying need is control, security, and the constant reassurance that everything is, or will be, alright.
Anxiety-driven meaning with examples
- Her anxiety-driven procrastination meant she delayed starting the project until the last minute, fueled by an overwhelming fear of failure. This cycle intensified her stress and made it harder to complete the task. She constantly sought reassurance that she was doing the 'right thing' to avoid any perceived negative consequence.
- The company's marketing strategy was criticized as anxiety-driven; their constant promotion of worst-case scenarios in relation to competitors, drove a climate of fear rather than showcasing their strengths. Instead of being proactive, the company sought safety in the market by making irrational decisions.
- His anxiety-driven need for perfection led him to meticulously revise every detail of his presentation repeatedly. This constant refinement, however, consumed excessive time and ultimately made the process less effective because he lacked confidence he could provide a polished product.
- An anxiety-driven shopping spree was the result of her recent breakup. The temporary relief provided by acquiring new items was fleeting, as the underlying feelings of sadness and insecurity quickly resurfaced and fueled the desire for a dopamine hit.
