The Benefits of Embracing Uncertainty
We live in an uncertain world, and there are advantages to embracing that uncertainty. Think of the last time you felt uncertain—whether about a future relationship, your career, medical symptoms, or anything else. You may have felt anxious and unable to make clear predictions. For this reason, many people view uncertainty as unpleasant.
However, it is important to recognize that not all uncertainty is the same, and how we respond depends on the type of uncertainty we face. There are situations in which we do not know what is going to happen next, and there are situations in which an event has already occurred but the outcome is still unknown.
When the Thing Has Not Happened Yet
When something has not happened yet, there is often an opportunity to influence the outcome through our actions. We can act to move undecided circumstances in a desired direction.
Consider a simple example. Suppose you have a crush, and you realize that your crush is not giving you much attention. When people are asked how they would respond, many say they would put in extra effort rather than simply feeling anxious about the situation.
Research suggests that people prefer watching undetermined events live rather than watching recorded versions of them. Similarly, when we feel uncertain about a relationship, we often plan dates, buy flowers, or organize activities to improve the situation. Although uncertainty can make us uncomfortable, it can also motivate us to take action.
We often view undetermined situations as more desirable because we feel that we have some degree of control over them, even when they are objectively beyond our control. For example, when rolling a dice, many people feel they can influence the outcome even though the result is entirely random. When outcomes have not yet been decided, we tend to believe our actions can make a difference.
When the Event Has Already Happened but the Outcome Is Unknown
Now consider situations in which an event has already occurred, but you do not yet know the result.
In real life, trying to understand the factors behind your boss’s unpredictable moods may help you choose the best time to make a request. However, uncertainty can also lead us to seek useless or even harmful information.
For example, imagine you are talking with a group of friends and an uncertain topic suddenly comes up—one that makes you uncomfortable. You may start overthinking, creating unnecessary stress in your mind.
Sometimes it is better to sit with uncertainty rather than trying to eliminate it immediately. Studies have shown that people often choose a bet that provides faster feedback over a more advantageous wager that requires waiting. Even when the timing of rewards is uncertain in both cases, people prefer to know the outcome sooner.
Interestingly, those who had to wait to discover their preferred gifts were often happier than those who received them immediately. Anticipation itself can be a source of pleasure.
Uncertainty allows us to experience the extra spark of enjoyment that comes from secret admirers, wrapped gifts, suspenseful novels, and unexpected surprises. Although uncertainty is not always welcome, we are likely to benefit if we learn to become more aware of it and more comfortable with it.