Navigating uncertainty – how the f*ck do we do it?? There are many uncertain aspects of our lives at any given time, especially as a young adult navigating life’s journey. It can be a big challenge to navigate this uncertainty. Today on the blog, we’re diving in to provide some practical strategies for how to navigate uncertainty. Let’s dive in!

I’m always a fan of the seasons changing. If you haven’t read my book yet, it explores how the seasons change in nature – and also in our lives. There are many metaphors we can pull from nature for our own lives, and adapting to these changing seasons is no exception. I’m in a big season of change right now, and to be quite honest, navigating the uncertainty has been very challenging. There is SO much unknown for me. Though I am aware the dust will settle eventually, there are many twists and turns to navigate in the meantime. Since I am dealing with this uncertainty right now, I thought it was the perfect time to write more about how I am navigating it.

Navigating my most recent uncertainties has definitely been quite the challenge so far. I was in a very toxic job this past summer that I had to quit due to the negative impacts it was having on me. Since then, I’ve been trying to focus on regaining myself, as I felt I got lost throughout the toxicity of this work. It’s been a few weeks and is slowly getting better, but it is still taking time. As I continue to process this experience, I am trying to sort out my next move, which has been where the uncertainty creeps in. I would love my primary focus to be writing, especially as I am currently working on my second book (get updates here) – but I know I need more than that. I’m not sure which direction to take, though, and it seems as if uncertainty surrounds my every breath.

With all of that said, how can we navigate uncertainty? Especially when we are in a season of change, with many directions to choose from, and hesitating which way to go? One of my go-to’s is to seek the support of others. Family and friends who know you very well may be able to help you sort out your next step. They could also offer a new perspective that you may not have considered before. If one of them has experienced something similar, they may be able to provide some helpful advice as you navigate your way forward. It is always helpful to know that we aren’t alone in what we are experiencing, so having that validation from someone who’s been there can be very comforting. Even simply putting your feelings into words about the confusion you feel and sharing it with someone can help!

Guidance and support from others can be very helpful, but if your uncertainty is due to a specific decision, you are typically the one making that final call. There is only so much assistance loved ones can provide before the burden is on your shoulders, to make the decision that is best for you. Ultimately, only you can choose what direction to take! This is where reflection plays a big role. Reflecting on your circumstances and the uncertainty you are faced with can help you to see things more clearly. Journaling is always a process that helps me significantly. If you have a big decision to make, I love using pro/con lists to help narrow it down. Doing a creative activity can also help with expressing yourself in a new way, and perhaps recognizing something you hadn’t before.

If you’re navigating a persistent state of uncertainty, it may be helpful to create a sense of stability as you continue to do so. Leaning into a routine can provide you with this stability when it feels like everything else is up in the air. Even something as simple as starting your morning or ending your evening the same way each day can help! Allowing yourself to let go of how you thought it would work out is also important. In this case, having a good cry can be powerful too. It might sound strange, but you are allowed to grieve for things not turning out the way you had planned. It can be really scary sometimes to change your story – but you can do it and find a different path forward.

When all else fails, I like to get out of my head and into my body. Exercise is a powerful tool to help navigate uncertainty. Taking your mind off the situation, even if only for a short time, can provide some reprieve and maybe even allow you to come back with a clearer head. Lately, I’ve been getting into my body by going for a run, a hike, or attending a yoga class. All of these options have worked great for me, and there are many forms of exercise that can accomplish the same thing! Even going for a short walk in nature can provide countless benefits. If you are struggling with uncertainty like me, I strongly recommend getting into your body through various forms of exercise. It has been a gamechanger!

Here’s a condensed list of a few different options you can try to navigate uncertainty:

• Talk it out with family and friends to get their perspective
• Journal your feelings
• Make a pro/con list to weigh your options
• Lean into routine for a sense of stability
• Get out of your head and into your body by exercising
• Have a good cry if you need it!

Navigating uncertainty can be scary and challenging, but the most important thing is to stay true to yourself in the process. Though I’m not sure what my next move is just yet, staying true to myself is something I will keep at the forefront always. Stay tuned as I continue to stumble my way forwards – and sending love if you’re in the same spot too! <3