What people get wrong about uncertainty and risk

Have you ever decided not to do something because you were afraid of what might happen? This is a pretty common sentiment I've seen among those I coach. One of the things that makes decision-making tricky is the presence of uncertainty.

However, uncertainty is not the same as risk. It's actually risk, not uncertainty, that most people fear.

Risk is a probability or threat of damage, injury, liability, or loss.

Uncertainty is simply when the consequences of an action cannot be predicted.

Decisions are far less scary when you recognize uncertainty is not the same as risk. You do not have to tie uncertainty to the fear of the possible bad things that could happen. You can focus on the wonder of possible awesome things that could happen. It's your choice.