Opportunity awaits in the unknown.
Greetings Empowered Humans!
Have you ever found yourself in a high-anxiety situation, waiting for a test result, a job interview call, or an answer to something life-changing? It’s that liminal space—the in-between—where so many of us struggle to feel grounded. Add to that the curveball life throws when, after putting yourself out there and making a big change, opportunities suddenly start appearing from unexpected places. Now you’re not just waiting—you’re faced with decisions that could shape your future.
So, how do you navigate the anxiety of uncertainty and find clarity when multiple good options appear on your path? Let’s break it down:
High-anxiety moments often stem from our desire to control the uncontrollable. When you’re waiting for an outcome, your brain may run wild with “what ifs” or try to predict every possible scenario. This mental loop can feel overwhelming, but understanding why it happens is key:
- Your Brain Seeks Certainty: The unknown feels threatening, so your mind races to create a sense of control—even if it’s just imagining outcomes.
- You’ve Invested Deeply: When you’ve put in effort, taken a risk, or gone out on a limb, the stakes feel higher, making the waiting feel more intense.
What to Do:
- Focus on What You Can Control: When anxiety spikes, ground yourself by taking action in areas you can influence—exercise, journaling, or organizing your thoughts.
- Shift Your Perspective: Instead of seeing the waiting as a void, view it as a space of possibility. Use this time to reflect, rest, and prepare for what’s next.
Have you ever noticed that when you make a big life change—say, applying for a job or starting a new project—opportunities start popping up in places you didn’t expect? This isn’t just luck; it’s a combination of mindset and action:
- You’re Putting Yourself Out There: When you take steps toward what you want, you’re signaling to the world (and yourself) that you’re ready for more.
- Your Awareness Expands: By focusing on growth, you start noticing opportunities that were always there but didn’t align with your previous mindset.
- Momentum Attracts More Momentum: Taking bold steps creates a ripple effect, and opportunities often appear where you least expect them.
It’s an exciting, affirming experience, but it can also lead to decision fatigue if you’re presented with multiple good options.
Choosing between multiple great opportunities can feel just as stressful as having no options at all. Here’s how to approach it:
- Reconnect With Your “Why”
Go back to your core values and goals. What motivated you to make the change in the first place? Which option aligns most with the life you’re actively trying to create? - Envision the Outcomes
Imagine yourself in each scenario six months or a year from now. How do you feel? Which path excites you, challenges you, or brings the most joy? - Trust Your Gut
Sometimes, the best choice isn’t the one that makes the most logical sense on paper—it’s the one that feels right. Pay attention to your intuition; it’s often more aligned with your true desires than overthinking. - Seek Advice (But Stay True to You)
It’s helpful to get input from trusted friends, mentors, or coaches, but remember: no one knows your life and values better than you. Use advice as a guide, not a directive. - Give Yourself Permission to Pause
If you feel overwhelmed, step back. Let time and space help you gain clarity. Remember: not all decisions need to be made immediately.
Making a bold move in your life—whether it’s pursuing a new career, improving your health, or taking on a personal challenge—requires courage. It’s natural to feel anxious about the unknown or overwhelmed by new opportunities. But the fact that you’re in this space means you’re growing, and growth is where magic happens.
So, take a deep breath. Focus on what you can control, trust that the right opportunities will align, and remind yourself that every decision you make is a step forward. Whether you choose the “perfect” path or not, you’re actively creating the life you want—and that’s something to celebrate.
What’s the next bold step you’re considering? Hit reply, or comment in our Empower-ed Facebook group and let me know—I’d love to cheer you on!
Warmly,
Coach Christine