Purposeful Health: Finding Meaning in Uncertain Times
Life can feel like it’s shifting beneath our feet. One day, everything seems stable; the next, the news is disturbing and unsettling, your job security feels questionable, or a relationship dynamic suddenly changes. If you’ve found yourself feeling unmoored—wondering what’s next and how to navigate the unknown—you’re not alone!
Uncertainty is uncomfortable because our brains are wired for predictability and control. When the future feels hazy, our minds often spiral into worst-case scenario thinking, trying to fill in the gaps. But here’s the truth: uncertainty doesn’t always signal disaster. Sometimes, it signals an opportunity to redefine what truly matters.
The Power of Meaning-Making
When life feels unpredictable, it’s natural to crave certainty. But what if, instead of seeking control, we focused on creating meaning?
To give an example of how this might work in real life, I’ll share a little scenario from one of our clients, Emma, a 32-year-old high tech professional who was unexpectedly laid off after a decade at her company. To make matters more challenging and scary, she had just purchased her first home! At first, she spiraled into "what if" thinking: What if I never find another job? What if I can’t pay my mortgage? What if I made the wrong career choice in the first place? Anxiety consumed her until she shifted her focus—from fear to purpose. She started asking herself:
What do I value most in my life right now?
What small steps can I take today that align with those values?
What would it look like to trust myself at this moment?
What if this moment is actually my chance to follow my heart?
Emma realized that, while she couldn’t control the job market, she could control how she responded to uncertainty. She began reframing this transition as an opportunity for growth—exploring roles that aligned more deeply with her passions. Instead of staying stuck in fear, she took a brief consultation job to pay the bills while she pursued other professional dreams. Success didn’t happen overnight, but she’s now running her own nonprofit and creating opportunities for underprivileged girls in the arts! Although it was a difficult and challenging time, her shift in perspective to make meaning out of chaos moved her in the direction she had wanted for years.
This ability to find meaning in difficult times isn’t just inspiring—it’s scientifically backed. Psychologist Viktor Frankl, author of Man’s Search for Meaning, famously wrote:
“When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.”
Research supports this. Studies show that individuals who can find meaning during stressful times experience lower anxiety, greater well-being, and increased resilience.
Practical Strategies to Anchor Yourself in Uncertain Times
The goal isn’t to eliminate uncertainty—it’s to build tools that help you navigate it. Here are three ways to stay grounded when life feels unpredictable:
1. Control What You Can, Release What You Can’t
When life feels uncertain, focusing on small, daily actions can restore a sense of stability. Ask yourself:
What daily habits bring me a sense of calm? (Movement, journaling, intentional breathing)
What’s within my control? (My reactions, mindset, choices)
What’s outside my control? (Other people’s actions, global events)
🌱 Practical Tip: Try starting each morning with a grounding ritual—like five deep breaths, setting an intention for the day, walking the dogs or simply making your bed. These small actions can shift your focus from chaos to clarity.
2. Reframe Uncertainty as a Season, Not a Verdict
Uncertainty isn’t a permanent state—it’s a transition. The way you view it can shape your emotional response.
🌱 Practical Tip: Think back to a time in your life when things felt uncertain but ultimately worked out.
What strengths helped you navigate that period?
How did you adapt?
What would your past self say to encourage you now?
By reminding yourself of past resilience, you reinforce your ability to handle the unknown again.
3. Stay Connected—You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
Uncertainty can feel heavier when we try to carry it alone. Research shows that social support is one of the strongest predictors of resilience.
🌱 Practical Tip: Lean on your support system—whether it’s a close friend, a mentor, or a therapist. Talking through your fears with someone who understands can help you gain clarity and build confidence in your next steps.
Therapy Can Help You Navigate Uncertainty
Uncertainty is a part of life—but you don’t have to face it alone. Therapy provides a structured, supportive space to help you:
✔ Process the unknown without fear taking over
✔ Identify what truly matters to you
✔ Develop tools to navigate change with confidence
If uncertainty or uncontrollable events are weighing on you, book a session with our team today and start building the mindset and emotional resilience needed to find clarity, focus and purpose in the chaos!
Be well & take care
~ Ryan Lewis, LMHC, Founder & CEO
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