Embrace the fog of uncertainty.
“Human spirit is the ability to face the uncertainty of the future with curiosity and optimism. It is the belief that problems can be solved, differences resolved. It is a type of confidence. And it is fragile. It can be blackened by fear and superstition.” ~ Bernard Beckett
The great Scottish historian Thomas Carlyle once wrote, “Nothing is more terrible than activity without insight.” This is especially true today, as we grapple with the problems posed by continual change. Problems which make it difficult to foresee the near-term future.
In response, many have taken an impulsive, fear-driven route. They ignore possibility and inspiring ideas, and rely instead on machinations and measurements. They go through the motions and camouflage problems. There are no fresh perspectives, since fear stifles creativity and candid discussions.
I heard someone once compare a lack of inspiration and focus to hitting a thick fog while driving. We tense up and slow down. We become a two-fisted driver. We turn down the music and order people to be quiet. We lean forward to get a few more inches “out there,” looking for little markers to get us through the present “situation.” And what happens when the fog lifts? We relax and speed up to make up for lost time.
Well, here’s the problem: the fog is not going to lift this time. It’s now a permanent part of the environment (kind of like South Scotland). You can either be timid and anxious and hope you “get there,” or you can embrace the fog, step on the gas, crank up the tunes, and enjoy the ride.
Which ride you choose is entirely up to you.
Stay passionate!