“The quality of your life is related to how much uncertainty you can comfortably handle.” ~ Tony Robbins
Uncertainty, as defined by Verduzco-Aguirre et al. (2021), is the cognitive state that arises when an individual cannot adequately structure an event or life situation due to insufficient cues or signals. In such a state, a person cannot assign a definite value to events or predict the outcomes of their decisions accurately due to a lack of information or understanding. Uncertainty is not a straightforward concept as it stems from multiple interrelated circumstances.
For example, you might feel uncertain about a qualification you are enrolled in due to a lack of information about career paths, financial challenges, workload management, future job prospects, and the likelihood of success in that career. Alternatively, uncertainty about studying can arise from trying to balance studying, family responsibilities, and full-time work.
Uncertainty can be caused by both internal and external factors.
Ignoring uncertainty can negatively impact mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and depression, and worsening existing mental health conditions. Stress is often the first response to uncertainty. Early signs of stress, such as difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and sadness, should be addressed promptly to prevent more serious consequences. For those who already have existing mental conditions, stressful times can make the symptoms worse or difficult to manage, so it is often good to pay attention to stress levels, especially during uncertain times.
Concentrate on the present rather than worrying excessively about the future. For example, you may worry about finding a job once your qualification is completed. What can you focus on now to make yourself more competitive in the future? An important question to ask is “What are the things within my control now, how do I make the satiation worthwhile now?” While planning is important, overemphasis on potential negative outcomes can hinder current progress. The key is to understand that we don’t have control over the future, but we can prepare for it by focusing on what needs to be done now. What is within our control at this present moment?
Uncertainty is a state that develops over time and if ignored it can have a detrimental effect on one’s mental health. It is important to focus on how we feel and manage our stress levels. Practising mindfulness helps in monitoring emotions and seeking help early. Ignoring early warning signs of stress can lead to serious consequences.
Coping with uncertainty requires acceptance. Acceptance involves recognising the reality of uncertain situations while still exploring available options and making realistic assessments. Acceptance in times of uncertainty does not mean we have to let go and not try to solve the problem if there is a way to do so. We get to the point of acceptance once we have explored the available options and we have made a realistic assessment that this situation is what it is currently.
Build a support system including family, friends, peers, fellow club or society members, church members, religious or traditional leaders, and professional help when needed. Life can be challenging, and having people who can listen to our fears and anxieties and offer support is crucial. Sharing your concerns can provide new perspectives and reduce the burden of uncertainty. It is also important to recognize when the need arises to seek professional help. When normal worry becomes stressful and is likely to lead to depression, it can affect our daily functioning. We may find it difficult to concentrate, have trouble sleeping, and constantly feel down and sad.
Identify reliable sources of information to make informed decisions. Avoid misinformation by verifying the credibility of sources. Once we have identified reputable sources, we need to be able to use the information to assist us in answering the questions that we are struggling with. For example, when making a career decision, you may feel uncertain and think there is no information because you may be looking for information in the wrong places. Or you may think that you have chosen the wrong qualification because you may rely on information from unreliable sources. You may also find yourself in situations where you have all the information you need, but you don’t know how to use the information to answer the questions you have.
Too much information can be as detrimental as too little. Sometimes when we are trying desperately to get answers to difficult questions, we also tend to keep looking for information. Sometimes too much information can lead to more confusion instead of helping us solve the challenges we are experiencing. Balance your information intake to prevent confusion and decision paralysis. In uncertain times we also must be careful of information overload as it makes it even more difficult to decide when there is too much information, and we cannot process all of it at the given time. It helps to make a realistic assessment of the situation by moving away from the news, or conversations relating to the issues we face, to give ourselves a breather.
Learn more about the support services offered by the Unisa Directorate for Counselling and Career Development and how to contact a counsellor to have a conversation.
Last modified: 2024/08/02