If we want to improve ourselves, facing uncertainty is the only option. We don’t grow by blindly following the same path. Sticking purely to routines leads to stagnation, both in enjoyment and progress. Embracing uncertainty means discovering novelty, both good and bad.
Facing Your Fears
There’s an old saying, “In sterquiliniis invenitur,” which roughly means “in filth, it will be found.” A useful interpretation is that what you need is often where you least want to look. Facing something difficult head-on usually leads to positive outcomes. For example, studying the subjects you struggle with most before an exam, or dealing with suppressed emotions after a loss to heal in the long run.
Finding the Right Balance
While there’s comfort in the familiar, we all need some adventure. There seems to be an optimal way to explore new challenges called the “zone of proximal development,” introduced by psychologist Lev Vygotsky. It’s just beyond what’s comfortable, but not so far that it’s overwhelming. Finding this balance can lead to personal growth and a satisfying life. For instance, playing a game against someone slightly better than you is often the most fun and helps you improve.
This balance is similar to “exploration vs. exploitation” in reinforcement learning. “Exploitation” means repeating familiar behaviours, while “exploration” refers to trying new actions with unknown outcomes. We use this in everyday choices like picking restaurants or planning trips. It’s especially important in career decisions, where we often overestimate the risks of change. For anyone not satisfied with their life but worried about making a change, Tim Ferriss’ ‘fear-setting’ exercise helped me put my fears of a career change into perspective.
Dealing with Unexpected Challenges
When faced with overwhelming challenges, it helps to remember two things:
- We can’t accurately predict outcomes, good or bad. A difficult situation might lead to unexpected positive changes; for example, a health issue may rejuvenate someone’s appreciation for life.
- Events themselves aren’t inherently good or bad. It’s our perception that affects us. If we can change our perspective, the event does not have to be bad.
To round off, it’s important to face life’s challenges voluntarily and head-on, or they can rule us. Dealing with adversity is often the key to progress. And for those thinking about taking a risk: what’s the worst that can happen? That leap of faith is often not as high as it seems.
Edit 9/6/23: The Pathless Path by Paul Millerd is an inspiring read for those unsure about making a change to their current trajectory.