how-to-deal-with-fear-of-the-unknown, blog post, Flourishing Hope Counseling, Kingsville, Texas
Mental Health

How to Deal With Fear of the Unknown

Desired Outcome

Have you ever desired life to turn out a particular way? Perhaps you wanted your relationship to work out in the end. Maybe a loved one has died and you fear moving forward. You might have hoped your parents were more accepting of you. In situations such as these, where a specific outcome is wanted, but we don’t know how the end will turn out, it is easy to become overwhelmed by a fear of the unknown.  

Fear of the Unknown

Fear is a powerful emotion that can create psychological suffering and increase sensations of anxiety. Fear of the unknown is best defined as unconscious negative predictions about one’s life and future. It is natural to desire knowledge, information, and certainties regarding how the future will turn out. However, just because insight is lacking does not mean that one’s future will be bleak. Typically, unresolved concerns contribute to fears of the unknown and must be explored to pinpoint inaccurate core beliefs and ways of thinking. For example, a lack of confidence in one’s ability to cope with an unfavorable outcome perpetuates fear. Strategies to avoid exploring concerns about the unknown can cause fear to linger. Apart from resolving inner conflicts, fear of the unknown can paralyze abilities to move forward. 

Overcome Fear of the Unknown

Now, to overcome fears of the unknown, self-investment is necessary. Take some time to reflect on inner conflicts. Exploration is to resolve the issue inside of self. Be honest when thinking about what you want to happen. Question whether your desire is realistic or not. 

If you are making your best effort and goals are realistic, then show yourself some patience, compassion, and kindness. If you desire to save a relationship, understand that this hoped-for outcome does not depend solely upon you. Therefore, consider whether the other person demonstrates a commitment toward the relationship. Acceptance of truth assists in decreasing anxiety. Overcome fear of the unknown by noticing when you are jumping to conclusions about a negative outcome. Instead, acknowledge the positive possibilities.

Next, don’t let your emotions do the thinking. The role of emotions is to feel or to experience. So, I recommend using your mind to reason through your feelings. Following that, behave proactively. Take action and make decisions in the best interest of your future. Finally, increase your healthy coping strategies. Healthy coping skills are helpful in remaining stable when life simply doesn’t seem to go as planned.

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