Embracing Uncertainty: How to Thrive in Life’s In-Between Moments
Viveka von Rosen
Helping female executives in their 50s (plus) PIVOT into Entrepreneurship | You have a CALLING. It's time to uncover and fulfill it! | Increase your Visibility & Vitality | Keynote Speaker | Author | Catalyst and Coach
Embracing Uncertainty: How to Thrive in Life’s In-Between Moments
Have you ever felt like you’re stuck in limbo, unsure of what’s next? Maybe you thought you had a clear plan, but suddenly, life threw a curveball. You’re not where you used to be, but you’re also not where you want to be. It’s uncomfortable. It’s frustrating. And yet, it’s part of the process.
Recently, I visited a butterfly house and saw the transformation area—a small space where caterpillars turn into butterflies. But before they emerge with their beautiful wings, they go through a phase where they are, quite literally, goo. No clear form. No structure. Just raw potential in a holding pattern.
And that’s exactly how I’ve been feeling.
I used to talk about the liminal space—the phase between “what was” and “what’s next”—with admiration, seeing it as a creative and transformative period. And it is. But when you’re actually in it, it can feel overwhelming, uncertain, and disorienting.
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If you’ve been in this space, too, here’s what I’ve learned about navigating the unknown and finding peace in the process.
1. Accept That Growth Feels Uncomfortable
We often romanticize personal growth, but the truth is, transformation rarely feels good in the moment. When a caterpillar dissolves into goo, it’s not a painless process. When we grow, we shed old identities, habits, and comfort zones. That discomfort doesn’t mean something is wrong—it means something is changing.
Instead of resisting it, try to embrace the discomfort as part of the process. It’s okay to not have all the answers. It’s okay to feel lost for a little while.
2. Focus on What You Can Control
There are so many things in life that are outside of our control—unexpected changes, external circumstances, and even our own evolving emotions. But one thing we can control is our reaction.
When we stop trying to force certainty and instead focus on how we respond to uncertainty, we shift from a place of frustration to a place of empowerment.
Whether that means taking a break, meditating, journaling, or simply acknowledging your feelings, it’s all part of the process.
3. Keep Up Your Practices (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
During times of uncertainty, it’s tempting to abandon the habits that ground us. But that’s exactly when we need them the most.
? Journaling – Helps process thoughts and emotions.
? Meditation – Brings clarity and inner peace.
? Movement – Releases stress and boosts energy.
? Prayer or Reflection – Connects you to something greater.
Even if you don’t feel like doing these things, try anyway. These small, consistent actions help build a foundation for what comes next.
4. Trust the Timing of Your Transformation
You might feel pressure to have it all figured out—to push the river, to force the next step, to make things happen now. But transformation doesn’t work that way.
Just like a butterfly doesn’t rush the process of forming its wings, you don’t have to rush your own evolution. What’s meant for you is unfolding, even if you can’t see it yet.
I talk about this more in the following YouTube video...
So, if you’re in that “gooey” space right now, know that it’s okay. You are still becoming. You are still growing. And one day, when the time is right, you’ll emerge stronger, clearer, and ready for whatever’s next.
Where are you in your journey? Let’s talk in the comments. ????
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1 天前That in-between space is so uncomfortable, but I love how you framed it, it’s not just being stuck, it’s part of becoming.
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1 天前Trusting the process is everything. Transformation takes time, but it’s always worth it, Viveka von Rosen
Business, Innovation, Technology & Product Development Leadership. Consultant, Speaker & Author
1 天前This is great Viveka von Rosen and I loved the candor in your video. Had me smiling (funny metaphor from the seemingly gooey-like transformations ongoing with the butterflies) and of course relating to much of what you're saying. I will say - I think you're right on with your points. For sure.... it feels uncomfortable, and we should only focus on what we can control, and yeah keep up those practices that help us. That's perfect!
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2 天前Great article. I've been goo for a while. Very uncomfortable! Moving on from it now. ??
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2 天前I really enjoyed this issue, Viv. I listened to it in the Immersive Reader, super handy. I especially like part 3 and how each habit points to a reward. I like rewards ??