4 WAYS TO EMBRACE UNCERTAINTY AND THRIVE 

There are few things in life that are certain. What’s the old joke? The only certain things in life are death and taxes. I would argue there’s another: change – a career shift, a new baby, moving, new goals, uncertainty is always just around the corner. 

This is important. Resisting change won’t make it go away, but embracing change is the key to thriving. 

I’ve got 4 ways you can embrace uncertainty no matter what life throws at you: 

 

1. SHIFT YOUR PERSPECTIVE ON UNCERTAINTY

Uncertainty can be a threat. Or at least it can feel that way. But what if it was an opportunity instead? Take a minute to think about some major breakthroughs you’ve had in your life. How many occurred when you were stepping into the unknown? This is where the magic really happens. By shifting how you view uncertainty, you can start to see how it can provide opportunities for growth and learning, rather than something to be afraid of. 

Pro tip: The next time you face uncertainty, ask yourself, “What can this teach me? How can this help me grow?” This can be a game changer. 

 

2.  FOCUS ON WHAT’S IN YOUR CONTROL

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you experience uncertainty because we often focus on what’s beyond our control – the future, others’ opinions, a promotion. You need to shift. Focus on what you can control: your mindset, your actions, your responses to challenges, and how others treat you. All of these are within your power.  

Pro tip: Make a list of what you can control. Your effort, your habits, your choices – these are all areas where you can create a level of certainty in our uncertain world. 

 

3.  TAKE SMALL, CONSISTENT ACTIONS

Fear can paralyze us. One of my favorite Sci-Fi books, Dune, has a quote, “Fear is the mind killer.” And it is just that. Fear can hold us back particularly when we feel uncertain. A great way to fight this fear is to take action. When you take action, you can feel like you are in control and can create momentum. 

Pro tip: Break down the big, overwhelming changes in your life into smaller, more manageable actions. For example, if you’re experiencing a career change, start small by updating your resume or networking with one person. Small wins build confidence and get the ball rolling.  

 

4.  BUILD A STRONG SUPPORT SYSTEM

“No man is an island” – John Donne. As true now as it ever has been because we’re not meant to go through this life thing alone. Having that person – a trusted friend, partner, or mentor – in our corner makes life’s uncertainty easier to bear. Often, just talking it out with someone can make all the difference.  

Pro tip: Reach out to those you trust when facing uncertainty. Share your concerns and lean on them. I know this can be a vulnerable thing. But remember, vulnerability is our strength.  

 

Shifting your perspective, focusing on what’s in your control, taking action consistently, and leaning on the people you trust, can not only help you survive uncertainty but help you thrive in it. All these things together will help you build resilience in the face of uncertainty. 

What’s one area of uncertainty you’re going to tackle? Start small, start today.