Embracing uncertainty is a courageous and sometimes terrifying act.
The ultimate trust. To let go in the dark.—Carole Maso, Ava
Lately I’m reminded again and again that this life really is about trusting enough to let go in the dark and practice embracing uncertainty. Though we balk at change and uncertainty, the truth is that each moment is filled with uncertainty as it unfolds into something new. If we can embrace the uncertainty, embrace letting go, and embrace the darkness, we emerge into peace and ease. It’s the fighting that creates our suffering.
Any time we approach a creative project, there is uncertainty. Even if we have a vision of what we hope for, the final outcome is most often uncertain. Many creatives stop short of beginning anything because they hold a clear vision of an outcome that they don’t believe they can achieve. They get caught in wanting certainty, a guaranteed outcome of an idealistic version of their idea.
If we can learn to approach our creative expression with an attitude of letting go, embracing uncertainty, and trusting the process to allow the work to become what it wants to be, we find freedom in our creative expression. This kind of creative freedom usually generates more creative energy. This week, try to trust your creative process, let go into the darkness of uncertainty, and see what emerges.
Jen Johnson is a meditation teacher, photographer, and writer teaching meditation for healing and creativity. Learn more about working with Jen.