SERIES: Taking Care of YOU! How to Deal with Uncertainty in 2024

Same way you dealt with uncertainty in 2023? If so, how did that work for you? Whether it did or didn’t perhaps a few suggestions in this post might help you avoid being overwhelmed by uncertainty and worry in the days and months ahead.

Life is full of uncertainties and often or not we worry more than we should – particularly about those things we have no control over. Fortunately, for the things that are outside of our control, like the pandemic, we do the best we can by learning how to cope with difficult situations and muster up enough courage, confidence, and activate our problem-solving skills to face the unknown. There are ways to effectively deal with seemingly uncontrollable circumstances, thereby lessening our anxiety and reinforcing our confidence in dealing with the unknown.

Here are some basic suggestions:

1. Accept uncertainty – Keep in mind we all accept a level of uncertainty every day (driving to work, getting on the freeway/tollway, eating in a restaurant, etc.). We assume chances are anything can happen, so we accept the risk. Learn to better accept uncertainty of life.

2.  Re-evaluate your mindset – Relying on luck alone is not a guarantee that you will avoid any uncertainties. Take the initiative to adjust your level of thinking and utilize ideas that will most likely provide you an edge when confronted with uncertainty. Take a deep breath when an uncertain situation develops, calm yourself, adjust your attitude and focus on aspects of the challenge that are within your control. A cool head is more likely to result in positive problem-solving.

3. Minimize your need for certainty – If you excessively seek reassurance from others start now learning how to control it. Same goes for micromanaging, procrastinating and repeatedly checking things (like your emails, forms before sending, texts, etc.). Challenge your need for uncertainty, start letting go of negative behavior, minimize stress and give yourself more free time and energy to focus on practical goals.

4. Focus on the present – Avoid worrying about the future and focus on what’s happening now. To do so means that by concentrating on the present, you can fend off the negative assumptions and worrisome predictions that may be running wildly through your mind.

5. Manage your stress and anxiety – Exercise works wonders for relieving stress and anxiety (might want to start a mindfulness practice by listening to an audio meditation while exercising). Take time to relax/unwind before bedtime. Eating healthy meals on a regular basis can help maintain your energy levels and minimize mood swings.

Take Care of You and focus on doing a better job of dealing with uncontrollable circumstances, reduce your anxiety, and take on the unknown with greater confidence.