WRITER.

This day’s WordPress writing prompt is “How do you deal with uncertainty?” Personally, I deal with uncertainty by trying very hard not to think about it. I will do a lot of reading as a coping mechanism and distraction, and that seems to make a difference. If I am too tired to read, I get swarmed with all the “what ifs” of life, and if it gets too intense, I take my as-needed anxiety medication.

My therapist is fond of saying, “it’s a fear, not a fact,” which is helpful to remember. Falling back on the actual facts of the situation, and taking time to challenge those nagging thoughts helps. I try a tactic from Field Guide for the Formerly Villainous by Autumn K. England – put a hand over my heart, take a deep breath, and say aloud “I am safe.”

Staying in the present rather than fearing an uncertain future is certainly a challenge, but it is something I am practicing and will continue to work hard at.