For many of us, change can be a stressful and uncomfortable experience. This is because change can cause us to lose our sense of control. Losing control feels unsettling because humans naturally seek stability and predictability.

Heightened uncertainty in both our work and home lives can push us into change fatigue. Change fatigue is a feeling of exhaustion and frustration that you might experience when undergoing frequent or complex changes in life. This can lead to decreased motivation, procrastination, and withdrawal from social activities.

In order to navigate change and manage uncertainty, there are steps you can take:

• Be aware of your triggers and recognise how your behaviour changes, identifying these behaviours can be the first step to addressing them.
• Face the issue head-on and think about what you can control, this can reduce feelings of vulnerability.
• Identify actions you can take to help yourself, this could be seeking professional advice, setting boundaries, or engaging in self-care.

Here are some strategies to help you manage feelings of uncertainty:

• Break down larger challenges into smaller, achievable steps using a to-do list.
• Focus on the present and think about what’s in your power to do right now, you may find it helpful to practice mindfulness.
• Get out into nature, a recent study from Loughborough University found that among other benefits, spending time in nature can reduce anxiety and decrease rumination (fixating on negative thoughts).
• Every day consider what went well and list three things you’re grateful for, you can use a self-care app such as Finch to remind you to check in with yourself.
• Try reframing unhelpful thoughts, check out this video from the NHS which offers practical tips on tackling negative thoughts.
• Routine can be a great way to feel more in control and reduce uncertainty, this could be as simple as going to bed at the same time every night.
• Make time to wind down at the end of the day, this could be spending some time on a hobby or you could try out this yoga practice for uncertainty.
• Share your concerns with trusted friends and family members, remember that a problem shared is a problem halved.