Have you ever found yourself staying in a job, a home, or a relationship longer than you probably wanted to? Maybe it wasn’t exactly what you wanted, but you knew what to expect. You knew the routine. You knew the people. You knew how to navigate it. It may not have been comfortable, but there was a certain comfort in the discomfort.
Then something changes. Maybe you choose the change. Maybe it happens to you. A new job, a new home, a new relationship, or simply a new direction. And suddenly, the discomfort feels different. You know what you just left, but you have no idea what’s waiting for you.
That’s when our minds can have a field day.
Our brains are wired to look out for us, so they can be very good at creating every possible scenario of what could go wrong. And while that may be normal, it isn’t always helpful.
So if you’re feeling uncomfortable with where you are or uncertain about what’s ahead, take a breath. You’re not doing anything wrong. Uncertainty can feel uncomfortable. And you can choose to look at it a little differently.
Tell yourself, “This will go better than expected.”
This is one of my favorite go-tos when I’m facing a person or situation that brings up some angst. I’m not telling myself everything will be perfect. I’m simply reminding myself that it may go better than the story I’m creating in my head. It takes a little weight off the worry.
Play “What if?”
Our minds can be quick to ask, What if this doesn’t work out? Pause and try a different question. What if it does? What if the new job is what I’ve been hoping for? What if the new home feels even more like me? What if this new relationship brings something wonderful into my life? Get curious about what could go right, too.
Notice what you know and what you don’t.
When we’re facing the unknown, it can feel like everything is uncertain. But it isn’t. You know what you’ve learned. You know what matters to you. You know what you want more or less of. Separate what you actually know from what your worry is filling in.
Give yourself permission to be uncomfortable.
You don’t have to feel completely ready, confident, or certain before moving forward. Sometimes discomfort is simply a sign that you’re experiencing something new. You can feel uncertain and still take the next step.
The next chapter doesn’t have to be better because everything magically falls into place. Sometimes it becomes better because you’re willing to stay open to what you haven’t experienced yet. You may not know exactly what’s ahead, but you don’t have to figure it all out today. Take the next step, stay curious, and remember that the unknown holds possibilities, too.
Affirmation
I am curious about all my opportunities.
Sounds for Your Soul
Sometimes a song finds us exactly where we are. I hope this one brings you a little reminder to be gentle with yourself.