Hi, today I want to share an interesting topic, namely "humans prefer certainty over uncertainty", The main reason why I chose this topic is because many people become victims of this life, In order to survive, humans must have the ability to survive by going through things that are considered certain, otherwise, humans will experience a dead end in evaluating themselves, That is why, Humans crave certainty because it provides a sense of security and control in the often unpredictable world. Certainty helps us reduce anxiety and fear of the unknown.
Here are some reasons why certainty is so important to humans:
1. The Need for Survival
Evolutionarily, certainty helped our ancestors plan and make better decisions for survival. For example, knowing that a water source was available in a certain location or that weather patterns would remain consistent helped them hunt and farm more effectively.
2. Reducing Anxiety
The human brain is designed to anticipate and predict the future. When uncertainty arises, the brain triggers a stress response that makes us feel anxious, fearful, and uneasy. Conversely, certainty provides a sense of calm and stability.
3. Shaping Identity and Meaning
Humans seek certainty about who we are, what our purpose in life is, and what the future holds. This certainty helps us build a strong identity and feel that our lives have meaning. Examples include religious beliefs or specific values that provide a framework for our lives.
4. Planning and Decision-Making
Certainty allows us to plan and make decisions more effectively. Without certainty, it's difficult to plan for the future, whether it's about our careers, finances, or relationships. We can more easily determine our next steps if we're confident about the outcome.
5. Social Needs
In relationships with others, certainty is also very important. We want to know if we can trust others, if their commitment is genuine, and if the relationship will last. This certainty builds a foundation of trust and stability in interpersonal relationships.
However, it's important to remember that seeking absolute certainty can also hinder growth. Sometimes, uncertainty is a gateway to new experiences, creativity, and learning.
For your information, Humans dislike uncertainty because it contradicts our fundamental need for control, security, and predictability. Our brains are naturally programmed to seek patterns and sequences in order to plan and make decisions.
Here are some key reasons why uncertainty can be so uncomfortable for us:
1. Stress and Anxiety Response
Uncertainty triggers the amygdala, the part of the brain responsible for the "fight or flight" response. When we encounter something unknown, the brain perceives it as a potential threat. This causes an increase in stress hormones like cortisol, which triggers anxiety, restlessness, and feelings of unease.
2. Need for Control
We have a strong desire to feel in control of our lives. Uncertainty directly challenges this feeling, leaving us feeling helpless and passive about what might happen. This loss of control often feels frightening because we cannot predict or influence the outcome.
3. Difficulty Making Decisions
Without certain information, it is difficult for us to make logical and effective decisions. Our minds get caught in a "what if" cycle, trying to consider all the possible outcomes, both good and bad. This can lead to analysis paralysis, where we are too overwhelmed to take any action.
4. Challenges to Identity and Values
Uncertainty can shake our beliefs about who we are and what's important in life. For example, uncertainty about our careers can make us question our personal values or life purpose. We feel our identity is unstable, which can be very disruptive.
However, there are many positives to uncertainty. It can also be a source of growth, creativity, and resilience. Often, the best experiences and most valuable lessons in life come from situations that were initially uncertain.