🌀 I used to be so scared of the unknown…
It felt out of control,
threatening,
unstable,
and destructive.
The brain does this funny thing— it always leans towards the worst case scenario, especially when it comes to a situation where there are a lot of unknowns.
When we don’t have the answers all lined up, when things aren’t planned out to a T, when we don’t know exactly what’s coming, it sends our brain into a state of alarm where we start thinking of all the bad things that might happen.
This is a survival mechanism that’s wired deeply within our psyche to keep us “safe”.
The brain believes “if I know everything that’s coming, if I have a plan, then I have CONTROL. I will be safe from pain or d3ath, and I will survive”.
And survival is the brain and body’s number one priority— not growth, happiness or self-actualization.
But there is really no such thing as controlling the future because we simply don’t know what’s going to happen. All we have control over is the moment happening right now, right in front of us.
So what if we practiced letting go of the need for controlling the outcome of everything? What if we decided to trust ourselves that we can navigate any situation that arises, and simply allow ourselves to be in each present moment as it arrives?
Breathe,
Observe,
Allow,
Create space for the discomfort but don’t let it keep you stuck and small.
Because it’s not a bad thing to be in the unknown, to not have it all figured out, to take it one step at a time and learn as you go— that’s where the magic truly lives.
And instead of letting the brain take over with negative, fearful thoughts, what if you intentionally planted more supportive ones?
Because like I said— we can’t know what the future holds and it could be difficult OR amazing!
Instead of “what if it all falls apart?”
How about “What if it all falls together?”
Instead of “Something bad might happen”
How about “Something incredible might happen”?
Remember to give as much weight to the possibility that good things lie in the liminal unknown spaces, as you do bad things.
So, how can you embrace the unknown today?
The fear of the unknown can be overwhelming, but embracing uncertainty is crucial for personal growth. Instead of allowing negative thoughts to dominate, focus on positive affirmations like 'What if it all falls together?' Embrace the discomfort of not having all the answers and recognize this space as a fertile ground for creativity and self-discovery. Engaging with the present moment helps to reduce anxiety and allows for a healthier perspective on life’s unpredictability. When you accept that you cannot control the future, you open yourself up to new experiences and opportunities that can lead to unexpected joy and fulfillment. Practicing mindfulness through breathing and observation creates a supportive mental environment for navigating life’s unpredictable waves. Remember, growth often happens in the liminal spaces where control is relinquished. So, how will you choose to embrace the unknown today?
❤️