Lazarus (1977) cited the following sequence of self-instruction to use with a client who is experiencing anticipatory anxiety over an upcoming event: "I will develop a plan for what I have to do instead of worrying. I will handle the situation one step at a time. If I become anxious, I will pause and take in a few deep breaths. I do not have to eliminate all fear; I can keep it manageable. I will focus on what I need to do. When I control my ideas, I control my fear. It will get easier each time I do it