Calm in the Storm: Four Steps to Navigate Uncertainty

Life often feels like a storm, pushing us one way, pulling us another. The tension of it all? That's very real. But here's a steadying truth: some things are up to us, and others aren't. Knowing the difference—accepting it—can be the turning point between chaos and calm. It's simple but powerful.

The Stoic philosopher Seneca writes about a literal storm he faced that could have cost him his life. During a voyage, Seneca's ship encountered a violent storm that tossed it on the high seas, threatening to sink at any moment. As waves crashed against the boat and the crew scrambled in panic, Seneca felt the genuine terror of facing death.

He later used this experience as a lesson. Seneca knew that the storm and the ship's fate were beyond his control. Rather than succumbing to fear, he sought to center himself, accepting that the outcome was up to nature, not him. His role was to face the situation with courage, trusting that he could handle whatever happened.

As another less dramatic example, take voting, for instance. We can control our vote—the decision to show up, mark the ballot and drop it in the box. That's our role. But what happens after? The results, other people's choices, the outcome—that's not up to us. Letting go of outcomes, even as we stay committed to what matters, is a valuable mindset that frees us up in more ways than we realize.

"So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today." — Jesus

So, when uncertainty is high, here are a few ways to remain steady:

1. Separate Your Actions from the Outcome

Life is full of things we can do, but we don't always control what comes next. We can only be responsible for our part. Detach from needing a specific result, and you'll worry less and live more. This is true with anything where we've done our best and let the rest take its course.

2. Stay Anchored in Your Core Values

Our values are a compass when life feels shaky. Think about who you are becoming and what matters most to you. Ask yourself: Am I staying true to what I believe in, even in the face of the unknown? When we're rooted in our values, we're less shaken by what's happening around us.

3. Trust the Basics that Never Change

Life is unpredictable, but some things remain unchanged. No matter what unfolds, the sun will rise, time will move forward, and life will continue. Remembering this can help put things in perspective. When we focus on what lasts, we can feel a sense of contentment even in the midst of change.

4. Find Peace in the Present Moment

There's real power in just being here, in the now. Are you open to what this moment offers, even if the future is hazy? Sometimes, the present has lessons we overlook when we focus on what's next. Lean into what's here and find stability within it.

Ultimately, no matter where life takes us, the one constant is who we are. Our character, values, and intentions: We won't control every turn or detour, but we can choose how we respond and who we become. Embrace uncertainty, hold tight to what matters, and you might find that you're already right where you need to be.

"The true man is revealed in difficult times." — Epictetus

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~ Steve