A story of someone who hates not knowing the answer

Hi there

How was has your week been? It has been crazy holding two full time jobs (JK. I’m planning for my wedding but it really does feel like one). Today I want to share a story of someone whom I’m proud of.

Let’s call him H. H struggles with uncertainty a lot. H feels a rush of emotions anticipating a bonus announcement or a change of plans with friends. H’s main coping mechanism so far has been distraction leading up to that moment when he would get an answer.

This means, when he is alone, he is endlessly scrolling on his phone and hoping the days will end faster. This could be going on for weeks at a time. You can imagine how H hates not knowing the answer.

Knowing H for a long time and now armed with the power of questions, I have been asking H about these feelings and where they are coming from for the last few months. H appreciates being listened to but took no notice to what I was trying to do.

Just last week, H experienced a faulty product of something he bought online. The usual wave of anxiety overwhelmed him: “What if I can’t get a refund or exchange?”, “What if I can’t get the new product in time for my event?” “Why is this happening to me??!”

I observed something changed this time. He was soothing himself through the situation. He messaged the seller and waiting on the replies, sitting in the uncertainty. “I am feeling very annoyed but I am also finding comfort in knowing what is causing me to feel this way and I have done what I can.” He was building the muscle of awareness and choosing what state he wants to be in!

Does this story resonate? Most of the time change comes in small steps like this.

As usual, I believe in your possibilities. Let me know any suggestions on this series and if anyone could benefit from reading this, feel free to forward along!