Staying the Course: Finding Meaning, Hope, and Joy in Uncertain Times
Lately, many clients I meet with share a common feeling: the world feels heavy. Between global events, climate concerns, and financial uncertainty, it’s understandable to feel worried about the future. If you’ve been carrying this weight, know that you’re not alone.
Even in the midst of uncertainty, it’s possible to live with hope, meaning, and joy. These qualities aren’t about ignoring the state of the world, but about finding ways to stay grounded, present and connected, so we can keep moving forward with strength and resilience.
Making Peace with Uncertainty
None of us knows what tomorrow holds. That reality can feel scary, but it also invites an important question: Given that the future is unknown, how do I want to live today?
We might choose to live with kindness, courage, or curiosity. We might choose to give more attention to the people and experiences that truly matter to us. This is the heart of existential therapy: finding meaning in how we show up, even when outcomes aren’t guaranteed.
Leaning on Connection
One of the most healing experiences in times of uncertainty is feeling understood. When we connect with someone who listens with care—whether that’s a friend, loved one, or counsellor—we’re reminded that we don’t have to face everything alone.
Simple moments of connection can be deeply grounding: sharing a walk, talking over tea, or even just sitting in the company of someone who sees us for who we are. These relationships remind us that being human means being part of something bigger than ourselves.
Tapping Into Spirit and Presence
For many, spirituality or connection to something greater provides strength and a sense of hope. This doesn’t have to mean religion—though it might. For others, it’s about mindfulness, nature, creativity, or a sense of belonging in the wider web of life.
Spending time by the ocean, breathing deeply in a forest, or pausing under a star-filled sky can help us reconnect with a perspective larger than our immediate worries. In these moments, we often find peace, gratitude, and a renewed perspective.
Finding Joy in the Small Things
Joy doesn’t have to come from big, life-changing events. In fact, it’s often found in small, everyday moments: the warmth and upliftment of a morning coffee, laughter with an old friend, the comfort of a favourite song, or sunlight breaking through the clouds.
Noticing and savouring these moments doesn’t mean ignoring what’s difficult. It means giving ourselves permission to hold onto the good alongside the hard. Joy, in this way, becomes a source of strength.
Staying the Course
Life may not give us certainty, but we can still choose how we live within it. We can choose to:
Accept that uncertainty is part of being human.
Lean on connection and community.
Find comfort in spiritual or grounding practices.
Welcome moments of joy, however small.
These choices don’t erase life’s challenges, but they help us keep moving forward with steadiness and resilience.
If you find yourself struggling with negative thoughts or outlook right now, know that you don’t need to carry this alone. Reaching out for support can help you find your footing again and reconnect with your sense of meaning, joy, and possibility.