I read a very interesting article this week that has left me with a lot to ponder. This article essentially stated that we often tell ourselves and others that we are seeking clarity, when we are often seeking certainty.
We often ask for help with clarity. We want to be clear on our vision, our purpose, our goals, our plans and our actions. Many times we hesitate to do something because we think or believe that we are not clear on the path. We reach out to others for assistance.
But what if we are actually seeking certainty? For me, the big realization that I had after reading this article was that I often say that I am seeking clarity when I really want validation that I’m on the right track. To me, that is a form of certainty.
We crave certainty. It is our safe space, because we believe that we cannot fall, we are so certain that everything will be okay. Everything will work out fine for us.
Growth requires at least a calculated risk. I am all for seeking some clarity in taking the risk. But don’t look for permission, validation or certainty in the name of clarity. I will admit that I have done this in the past.
If you want to grow, if you want to succeed at the next level, in the next chapter of your life, by all means get clear on what you want, and why you want it. It’s the how to get it that is absolutely fuzzy. And you have to be okay on some level with that.
Growth doesn’t occur in comfort zones. Growth doesn’t occur in safety zones. You must be willing to take a risk. And that requires leaving the zone of certainty.
So the next time that you tell yourself or someone else that you are seeking clarity, be sure that you are telling yourself and them the truth. If you need certainty or permission, admit it. And work through that to get as clear as you can on who you are, what you want, and why you want it.
Are we clear?
Take care,
Alecia