“Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And that no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams.” – Paulo Cohelo

Tony Robbins says that that two of our six fundamental needs are the need for certainty and the need for uncertainty.  In this post, I explore those needs as they relate to us living a life of purpose.

The need for certainty provides the comfort of knowing the outcome. When this need is dominant, we feel that we have to always be in control. We do everything we believe will produce safety, security and consistency.  An example in meeting this need is a staying at a job that provides a steady paycheck even when you feel trapped.  You might be miserable but at least you are safe.  This need can also be met in part by the belief that a higher power exists and is always guiding you.

The need for uncertainty, on the other hand, is screaming for us to be on the edge of our seats. This includes the elements of novelty and variety.  By having many options, life is exciting and allows us to grow.  An example of satisfying this need is going after the dream job which allows for self-expression and using your talents, even though it means stepping into uncharted territory.  Since we don’t know what we don’t know, we could choose to view this an adventure and growth opportunity.  Regardless of what happens, we will learn something that we did not know before.

All of us have these two needs, though the degree can vary for each of us.  Clearly, they are on opposing sides of the spectrum and could cause some fierce inner battles when one is trying to keep you in the confined space of the known and the other is tugging you to explore exciting new lands where possibilities reside.  In addition to excitement, anxiety and fear rear their heads.  Stay put or proceed?

What to do?  What to do?

If you have BIG dreams for your life, what interpretations are you giving to your anxiety and fear when they arise in pursuit of those dreams?  Do you need to know the outcome before you take a step?  What is the cost of staying where you are?

Tony Robbins says, “The quality of your life is in direct proportion to the amount of uncertainty that you can comfortably live with.”

Without being reckless, how can you step out of your comfort zone?  How can you increase your tolerance for uncertainty by shifting your relationship with fear and anxiety?  What are you risking by not taking a risk?

Would you like to realize your best life?  Message me at [email protected], and let’s schedule a chat to see if we are a fit or to help you find other resources to best serve you.

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