Coping With The Unknown

Life is scary. And the older you get, the scarier it becomes. As a child, you're afraid of doing something that gets you punished by your parents. As a teenager, you're afraid of being ostracized by society. As a young adult, you're afraid of being able to support yourself and live a satisfying life. When I get older, I'll update additional fears.

All along the way, there comes the existential crisis. Why are we here? What's the point of it all? And all of that comes with the fear that we're either doing the wrong thing, or that nothing matters at all.

In order to prevent fear from consuming us, we need a way to cope with it. People all choose whatever it is that works for them, and they usually stick with it until it stops working.

Some people find purpose in their work. Either by being awesome in their field or by helping others with their work. Some people find solace in seeking the answers of the unknown (like scientists). Some people simply seek their own happiness, letting others find their own path to joy.

There are so many questions out there that we just don't have the answers to. We do find more answers with every passing year, but we have a long way to go. Beware anyone who claims they have all the answers. They will always make you feel comfortable and secure, but they will end up holding you back in the long run. You simply let them make your decisions for you. So yeah, you now have a purpose, but that purpose is being a tool.

When the unknown overwhelms you, know that you are not alone. Seek ideas, information, experiences, but not answers. When you have enough of the former, you will find the answers in them.

That is why I write in general. That is why I still maintain Cheff Salad. That is why being happy is my ultimate goal on a daily basis. These are the answers that help me cope with the unknown. Your answers may be different, and that's ok, as long as they don't end up hurting others.