I have been in a season of perpetual transition for the past two years in the context of family and friends who are also experiencing tremendous amounts of uncertainty. It’s a season of life that is often characterized by fear and doubt—a blatant reminder of how little control we have in our lives. While the unknown can be daunting to confront, it bears the beautiful promise of potential. Maybe what’s to come will be taxing and difficult, but maybe it will be wonderful too.
This week’s discussion catalogues some survival strategies for seasons of uncertainty.
- Don’t wait for certainty. Is there something that you want to learn? Is there a skill you would like to develop? Don’t wait for someone else to give you permission to grow. I believe that the process of learning fosters wonder and resilience. As you wait for uncertainty to come to a resolution, you can bring a sense of joy and hope to your days by opening your mind to new ideas. Maybe these things won’t resolve the issue that is creating unrest in your life, but practicing courage on any scale is good for the spirit and will carry over into other aspects of life.
- Ask other people questions. Hearing how others have navigated seasons of upheaval can reveal options that you might not have considered otherwise.
- Investigate potential opportunities. Is there something that has peaked your curiosity? Do some research. Maybe you will learn about volunteer opportunities or job openings that you never knew existed before.
- Challenge the fear of rejection. I have to remind myself that I can survive being told “No.” Take some risks. Put yourself out there. Ask for help. Share your art. Voice your dreams. Remember that it is not up to you to decide whether or not you will be accepted. There’s no way to know for sure what will happen if you never try.
- Remember that you are in good company. Experiencing the fear of the unknown is a very human experience. There is no shortage of people who can relate to the discomfort of uncertainty. It’s a vulnerable time in life that requires faith and creates opportunity for connection. There is grace and growth to be discovered in the murky waters of uncertainty. What a comfort it is to remember that we are not alone.
P.S. Here are some good reads.
