Fear of the Unknown

Almost everyone has had this fear throughout their life. Whether it was going to a new school, getting a new job, having children, or moving out of your parents house, all of these circumstances can bring on some uncertainties that drive fear into our lives. Even during this Covid pandemic, we see all of these unexpected turns with our economy, school closures, infection rates, death tolls, and loss of employment. Many people are fearful because they don’t know how they are going to make ends meet, where their next meals will come from, how their kids are going to learn being at home, and if society will ever get back to “normal”. Not knowing the outcome of these situations can definitely bring on some unwanted anxiety!

I remember a time in my life when I really feared the unknown. It was my first pregnancy and I didn’t have a clue about being pregnant or raising a child. I had to rely on my parents, sister, friends, and the Internet to give me insight about what was ahead. Even with all of the helpful information I received, I still had my fears and doubts! Nothing could truly prepare me for my daughter’s arrival except learning hands on. Once my daughter was born, all of my fears seemed to dissolve the more I learned her and understood her needs. My daughter was the true instructor!

Why is it that we as humans fear the unknown? The only reasonable explanation I could come up that makes sense is, failure! We fear the unknown because we all are afraid of failing. “What if I don’t make any friends at my new school?” “What if I am not successful in my new role?” “What if I don’t meet the expectations of my new manager or we don’t get along?” “What if I can’t afford my rent and bills and have to move back home?” “What if I’m not a good mother/father?” All of these concerns derive from the ugly truth that failure is scary! Sometimes it can’t be avoided. There are times in our lives where we will fail, but that doesn’t mean that’s the end for us! It’s a learning opportunity for us to improve and grow. Instead of fearing the unknown let’s embrace it and except the challenge!