A handful of my clients are experiencing some sort of transition period or new phase of life right now. Each of them is in a different stage of their life and career, yet they're experiencing the same set of emotions: uncertainty and simultaneous anticipation in various forms. As we grow in our lives, we encounter new experiences, new jobs, people, depths of emotions, habits, goals, desires, and needs.
Often when we face uncertainty, we meet it with resistance, anxiety, stress, or worry. Fluctuating emotions are rampant when we're in any sort of transition period. But, imagine what we could experience if we met uncertainty with excitement, the same way we do when our favorite artist releases a new album and we’re uncertain of what the songs will sound like and whether or not we'll enjoy or connect with the body of art. The anticipation for what's to come is what creates momentary happiness or excitement, but standing in the threshold of the unknown is the same in all scenarios. The emotions are the only difference. We cannot experience anything new without some form of uncertainty.
When we encounter new things in our lives and we tend to focus on fear, what if we focused on the fact that this experience, just like every other new one we've had is simply an adventure and an opportunity to learn, grow, and enjoy the present moment.
The only difference between the uncertainty in a new life experience and the uncertainty in a new album is the story we tell ourselves of what could happen and how we might respond to a wide range of possibilities that we envision in our minds.
As Tony Robbins says, "life is happening for you, not to you." Tell a new story about uncertainty, what you're experiencing might be a perfect opportunity for growth, learning, or building resilience.
Reflection Questions: What story am I telling myself about the uncertainty I'm experiencing right now? How might this uncertainty and resistance be happening for me?
Click here to learn more about how to manage stress and anxiety in the midst of uncertainty.