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Certainty vs. uncertainty: how to live in uncertainty

by Mark Goudie on Mar 14, 2023

Certainty vs. uncertainty: how to live in uncertainty - A Conscious State

We live in an age of uncertainty. Every day, we're bombarded with news of the latest crisis or disaster. Political instability, economic volatility, climate change... it can all make it feel like the world is a very uncertain place. And yet, we also live in an age of great opportunity. New technologies and industries are emerging all the time, creating new jobs and opportunities for growth. So how do we reconcile these two realities? How do we live in a world that is both uncertain and full of opportunity? In this article, we'll explore some ways to deal with uncertainty and make the most of the opportunities that life presents to us.

The illusion of certainty

Certainty can feel like a warm blanket. It's comfortable and familiar. But it can also be stifling, preventing us from taking risks and growing.

Uncertainty, on the other hand, can be uncomfortable. It's unfamiliar and often feels scary. But it can also be exciting, full of possibilities and potential.

So how do we live in uncertainty? How do we find the balance between feeling paralyzed by fear and constantly chasing after the next new thing?

We need to:

  1. Acknowledge that uncertainty is normal.
  2. Embrace the discomfort of not knowing.
  3. Be curious about what could be.
  4. Make space for what is unknown.

The benefits of uncertainty

Certainty can bring a false sense of security that can ultimately lead to disappointment, disillusionment, and even depression. On the other hand, uncertainty can be scary but it also has its benefits. It allows for growth, new experiences, and new opportunities.

Without uncertainty, we would never venture out of our comfort zones and try new things. We would never grow or learn. We would simply stay the same, stuck in our ways. But by embracing uncertainty, we open ourselves up to a world of possibilities.

Sure, there are risks associated with uncertainty. But there are also risks associated with certainty. The key is to find a balance between the two and to not let either one dictate your life. Embrace the uncertainties of life and use them as opportunities to grow and learn. Don't let your fear of the unknown hold you back from living your best life.

How to live with uncertainty

Most of us live with uncertainty every day. We don't know what the future holds, but we go about our lives nonetheless. How can we do this?

There are a few things that can help us live with uncertainty:

  1. Acceptance: first and foremost, we need to accept that uncertainty is a part of life. It's normal to feel anxious or worried when we don't know what's going to happen, but try to remind yourself that everyone feels this way at times.
  2. Flexibility: being flexible and open-minded can help us deal with uncertainty. If we're rigid in our thinking, it'll be harder to adapt when things don't go as planned.
  3. Trust: trust yourself and your abilities. Even if you don't know what the future holds, you'll be able to handle it if you believe in yourself.
  4. Patience: things rarely happen overnight, so patience is key when dealing with uncertainty. Try not to get too caught up in the "what ifs" and focus on enjoying the present moment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, living with uncertainty can be difficult, but it is also a part of life. Learning to embrace uncertainty and accept that things may not always go according to plan can help you live a more peaceful and fulfilling life. remember that no one has everything figured out, so allow yourself to be open to new experiences and possibilities. Who knows what might happen if you let go of your need for certainty?