When we don’t know what is going to happen next in a current scenario there are a few possibilities such as anticipation of how the situation unfolds, anxiety regarding the new scenario, frustration during the status quo period and fear of the unknown.
There could be several examples of this “current scenario”, casual or serious, business or personal, small or big. Consider hitting a weight loss plateau, hospitalization due to an illness, implementing a new business strategy, adopting a pet, a tournament you signed up for or the latest position you accepted and imagine the plethora of thoughts that go through your mind.
In each of these examples, not everything is in your hands. There are other factors and stakeholders involved in the current state resulting in a happy ending. So, what should you do then, to put your best foot forward?
Do some planning. Plan your work and personal schedule, have both an action plan and a back-up in mind. Use tools such as a phone calendar or an app to set reminders if you like. No one can predict what uncertainty they will face but one can prepare by planning ahead.
Put in your best effort. You can also allocate extra time to allow yourself some space or a break to rest and start afresh.
Think of how to stay calm if the uncertain situation ends up becoming too stressful. You can do this by finding out where and who to get help from, deciding what to do yourself and what to delegate and most of all, knowing when to say no. You can also avoid overthinking and not make assumptions about friends, colleagues or family’s behaviour at such times.
In uncertain situations, keep an open mind, don’t forget self-care and do what you can. Hope for the best outcome and be prepared for the worst. In case the outcome is desirable, be thankful and if it is undesirable, remember this too shall pass!
