Uncertainty is our brain’s nemesis
Our brain hates uncertainty. Whether it is uncertainty about whether you can perform a task, your job being in jepodardy through a restructure, concerns about relationship, health and finances.
Often you’ll hear a saying we need to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable”. This is actually a reflection of the times we live in rather than an understanding of how our brains work.
Our brains are problem oriented. Great when we’re successfully solving a problem. Problematic when we shift into a “problem saturated” state. Basically this means our brain hones in on our uncertainty to the point that our emotions, such as self doubt and fear about the situation, start to become so overwhelming it impacts our thoughts and actions. This often happens in uncertainty, especially when the uncertainty is beyond our ability to solve, or is outside our control.
What do we do when this situation arises?
* Recognise that the ability to be creative and brainstorm is limited
* Increase comfort and safety in our life to offset the uncertainty
* Highlight other meaningful aspects of your life for expanded focus
* Give yourself time to process what’s happening
I’ve created a more detailed article about this for submission to the Wellness Magazine. In the interim, if you’re interested in professional emotional support during an uncertain time, or would like to refer someone, feel free to message me. Alternatively, my book The Counselling Edition covers some ideas on dealing with emotional overwhelm :)
Kelly Perry
BAppSc, PostGradCertBusAdmin, PostGradCertPolSt, DipCounselling
Author of The Counselling Edition (2024)
