Feature


Avoid crystal ball gazing Sometimes a fertile imagination can be our own worst enemy and we may find ourselves, getting lost in our own feelings. If we are not careful, we may take out the imaginary crystal ball and start to “catastrophise” about the future. The what ifs and speculations can lead to feelings of despair and then those feelings can lead to more speculation and then we may become lost and paralysed in an overwhelming whirlpool of fear. We cannot possibly predict the future; we can, however, feel less anxious by creating more calm and fostering positive thoughts about the alternative possibilities.


TOP TIP – Learning how to use guided imagery which is a relaxation technique that involves visualising positive and peaceful settings like a beautiful beach or a peaceful meadow. This will help you to promote relaxation, which can lower blood pressure and reduce other problems related to stress.


Control the controllables When there is lot of uncertainty and change going on in our lives, we may find it overwhelming, and we can even begin to feel out of control which can be unnerving. This is when we need to remind ourselves about what we are in control of and focus on ‘controlling the controllables’. By turning our focus towards the things, we can control,


rather than those we can’t, it will help us to feel calmer and less stressed. It is also important to remember that we are always in control of how we respond in every given situation.


TOP TIP – Take some time to make a list of what you are currently in control o in your ie and reflect on these islands of sanctuary. This will help you to gain a healthy and balanced perspective and reduce the build-up of stress that occurs when we feel out of control and overwhelmed.


In summary Tolerating and living well with uncertainty is a skill that can be developed over time. It’s about shifting our mindset and


adopting practical strategies to navigate the unpredictable nature of life. Seeing uncertainty as an opportunity is a powerful mindset shift that can transform how we navigate life’s challenges. It moves us from a place of fear and avoidance to one of curiosity, growth and possibility. n


A leading expert on resilience and behavioural agility, Liggy Webb is founding director and CEO of The Learning Architect, an international consortium of life skills specialists. Liggy presents ‘Tolerance: the 21st-century super skill’ in Theatre 1 on Tuesday 7 October at World of Learning


Learning Magazine | 17


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