Ripples #1310: Tolerating Uncertainty

PEBBLE

The willingness to consider possibility requires a tolerance of uncertainty.
~Rachel Naomi Remen, shared by Abbie in Georgia

BOULDER

The fact that we don’t know—that nothing is certain and we therefore can’t hold on to anything—can evoke fear and depression, but it can also evoke a sense of wonder, curiosity, and freedom. Some of our best moments come when we haven’t yet decided what will happen next.
~Elizabeth Mattis Namgyel, shared by Martha in Durango, CO

PONDER

I recently participated in a six-week online course from Grateful Living called Grateful Hope: Passion for the Possible that included a fascinating conversation with Maggie Jackson, author of Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure.

I was intrigued to learn that there is clinical research supporting the claim that bolstering our tolerance of uncertainty has both physical and mental health benefits (lowered blood pressure, less anxiety, etc.). Jackson explained that since the world is unpredicatble and imperfect and constantly changing, we humans generally fare much better as we improve our capacity to tolerate (and even embrace) the uncertainty that comes along with not being sure what is going to happen next.

We humans tend to be more comfortable having answers and knowing exactly what is coming next in our day and in our lives. That makes sense, as knowing what is heading our way allows us to get ready to respond in the best way. She makes an excellent case that denying or resisting uncertainty can make us brittle in the face of inevitable change. And since at times life can be quite dynamic and unpredictable, we’re better off adapting to (and growing through) uncertainty.

I hope this week includes enough certainty to help you feel safe and secure, and enough uncertainty to help you grow.

Peace,
Paul
P.S. Have I told you lately how much I appreciate that you took the time to read this? It pleases me so!

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