Uncertainty is the very fabric of life.
It’s one of the few things you can predict about life.
The one thing certain in life is uncertainty.
In our rapidly changing world, uncertainty is guaranteed — it’s impossible to predict the future. While facing this reality is uncomfortable, embracing it rather than resisting it is crucial.
“The only thing that makes life possible is permanent, intolerable uncertainty; not knowing what comes next,” author Ursula K. Le Guin said.
Leaning into uncertainty means letting go of our need for control and certainty. It involves embracing things outside your control and learning to take risks, even when the outcome is uncertain.
Rather than trying to control everything, we can learn to accept that uncertainty is a natural part of life and find ways to thrive despite the unpredictability of some events.
For example, you won’t have all the answers or information to take a perfect step in your relationship, finances or career.
But you still have to make a choice.
Making decisions can be stressful — you may not always know the outcome of your choices. Embracing the uncertainty of decision-making can help you to trust your instincts and make choices that align with your values and goals.
Making decisions can be stressful, and you may not always know the outcome of your choices.
Embracing the uncertainty of decision-making can help individuals to trust their instincts and make choices that align with their values and goals.
While uncertainty can be scary, it can also be an opportunity to take calculated steps toward your goals. Weigh the potential rewards against the potential risks, and be bold and take action.
Practice acting, in spite of doubt
“We need to practice acting in spite of fear, in spite of doubt, in spite of worry, in spite of uncertainty, in spite of inconvenience, in spite of discomfort, and even to practice acting when we’re not in the mood to act,” argues Secrets of the Millionaire Mind author T. Harv Eker.
When we lean into uncertainty, we essentially accept that we cannot control everything in our lives.
We also accept a certain amount of risk and the possibility of failure in any new endeavor.
It’s a powerful way to cope with the stress of things going wrong.
Leaning into uncertainty also involves cultivating a sense of curiosity and openness to new experiences.
“The quest for certainty blocks the search for meaning. Uncertainty is the very condition to impel man to unfold his powers.” says psychologist, psychoanalyst, and philosopher Erich Fromm.
We become more receptive to new ideas, perspectives, and opportunities when we approach the unknown with curiosity.
We are more likely to take risks and explore new avenues, which can lead to personal growth and discovery.
The ability to lean into uncertainty can help us develop resilience, adaptability, and a more positive outlook.
Navigate uncertainty is a skill
“Uncertainty is the only certainty there is, and knowing how to live with insecurity is the only security.” — John Allen Paulos
When faced with uncertainty, our natural tendency is to try to regain control and eliminate ambiguity. However, this approach can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, and frustration.
In contrast, embracing uncertainty can help us develop resilience and adaptability, essential skills for navigating life’s challenges.
When we lean into uncertainty, we become more open-minded. We are more willing to try new things, take on challenges, and learn from our experiences.
Uncertainty can be uncomfortable but is also a necessary part of life.
When we embrace uncertainty, we open ourselves to new experiences and possibilities. We are also learning to trust ourselves and our ability to handle whatever life throws at us.
“Teach yourself to work in uncertainty.” — Bernard Malamud
Leaning into uncertainty can also help us to cultivate a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the present moment.
When we accept that the future is uncertain, we can better focus on the present and appreciate the people and experiences we have in our lives right now.
Lean into uncertainty by taking a deep breath and accepting that you do not have all the answers.
You can also relinquish the need to control everything by reframing your perspective. Instead of viewing uncertainty as a threat, try to see it as an opportunity for growth and learning.
“If uncertainty is unacceptable to you, it turns into fear. If it is perfectly acceptable, it turns into increased aliveness, alertness and creativity,” author of The Power of Now, Eckhart Tolle, said.
Reframing your perspective can help you approach uncertainty more positively and open-mindedly.
Uncertainty is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be debilitating.