Are you entering a new phase of your life?
Rather than excited, you might feel nervous, or overwhelmed because for the first time ever, life isn't laid out for you. You don't know what's up next.
Uncertainty is a universal experience that you'll probably go through more than once in your life.
Not to worry! You can turn your fear into excitement with the right mentality.
Before the Perspective Switch
I was always someone who needed a plan. I needed to know what was coming up and when.
So, after graduating from my undergrad I sent out applications and got my first job. Everything was going according to plan, except for one thing...I hated my job.
Panic set in because what was I supposed to do, not have a job? I wondered:
What was I going to do with my time?
What if I couldn't find another job?
What if I wasn't good enough to get another job?
Was there something wrong with me?
What do you notice about the questions I was asking myself?
I was engaged in negative self-talk. I was doubting my abilities, imagining worst case scenarios, and being overly critical of myself.
Consistently thinking like this can lead to lower confidence and feelings of depression and anxiety.
No Specific Plan? No Problem!
After discussing my situation with some friends and family, I was able to get different perspectives on my potential options. Some of them were even able to relate to my situation and told me how they overcame their own times of uncertainty.
Asking Constructive Questions
I started researching different types of jobs and even master's programs. I asked myself:
Where could these different paths lead?
What step can I take today that will help me figure this out?
Suddenly my uncertain future didn't seem so daunting, but kind of exciting...
Photo by Zulian Firmansyah on UnsplashQuiz
What are some of the things that helped change my mindset? Select all that apply:
Tips to Get Through Uncertain Times
Here are some actionable strategies to help get you through times of uncertainty:
Write it Out
Whether it's a list of everything you have achieved, a pros and cons list, or even a to-do list, writing will help clear your head and make your next step more clear.
Check out this Byte for more tips on how to write it out.
Practice Positive Self-Talk
Be aware of how you are speaking to yourself. Thinking about the worst case scenario and how you might not make it will cause you to find uncertain times scary rather than exciting.
Talk it Out
Talking about your situation with others will make your situation feel like less of a burden, and who knows what awesome advice you might get!
Find Balance
With uncertainty, there are things you can control and things you can't. Being too passive will keep you in the same situation, but making plans that are too rigid will lead you back to square one. Take action to build the future you want — but embrace the unknown!
Quiz
Scenario: You ended a relationship with your long-term partner. You'll have to navigate this new phase of life by figuring out who you are without this person. What are some examples of positive self-talk to get you through this uncertain time?
Take Action
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