Anxiety That Life is Uncertain

We often talk about anxiety as if it’s this mysterious, overwhelming force that descends upon us without warning. It shows up in racing thoughts, tight chests, and sleepless nights. But when we dig beneath the symptoms, there’s a surprisingly simple—though not easy—truth at the heart of it: anxiety is the inability to tolerate uncertainty.

But here’s the problem—life is inherently uncertain. Read below for tips on how to manage uncertainty and the anxiety it brings. 

4 Tips to Help Manage Anxiety

1. Challenge the need for certainty.

Ask yourself: What am I afraid will happen if I don’t know the outcome? Often, anxiety convinces us that not knowing equals danger. But uncertainty is not inherently bad—it’s just uncomfortable.

Try flipping the script: uncertainty also means possibility. It’s where surprise, growth, and opportunity live. You don’t need all the answers right now. You only need to take the next right step.

2. Allow for flexible thinking.

Practice “both/and” thinking instead of “either/or.”

This kind of thinking helps loosen the grip of anxiety by reminding your brain that multiple truths can coexist, and not everything has to be black or white. It opens up more possibilities, which naturally reduces mental pressure.

3. Let go of the myth of control.

We often believe that if we just plan well enough or think hard enough, we can avoid pain. But life has its own rhythm. Learning to surrender—not give up, but lean in—is one of the most powerful ways to find peace in the midst of chaos.

Try this mantra:

“I can’t control everything, but I can choose how I respond.”

4. Embrace uncertainty and pain as natural parts of life, not problems to fix.

When anxiety rises from the fear of what might happen or from trying to avoid discomfort, gently remind yourself: “It’s okay not to know. It’s okay to feel this.” Pain and uncertainty aren't signs that something’s wrong—they’re simply part of being human. By making space for them rather than resisting or trying to control everything, you free up energy to live more fully in the present.

This kind of acceptance doesn’t mean giving up—it means choosing to live alongside your anxiety instead of being ruled by it. Think of it like carrying a heavy backpack while still walking toward what matters.

Getting Started with Therapy for Anxiety

I offer psychotherapy for individuals struggling with anxiety. If you find yourself avoiding uncomfortable situations or constantly ruminating on the “what ifs” therapy can help! Reach out today to get started with therapy for anxiety.