Rule #2

The Uncomfortable Nature of Uncertainty

People often ask whether uncertainty is uncomfortable. The answer is yes. So are walking boots. That does not mean one should attempt a journey in slippers.

Over the years I have travelled with certainty, doubt, curiosity, optimism, pessimism and a notebook that should probably have been replaced much sooner than it was.

Of these, uncertainty proved the easiest companion. Certainty requires a considerable amount of luggage. It insists on carrying conclusions, assumptions and detailed explanations for everything encountered along the way. The bags become very heavy. I once knew a traveller who carried so much certainty that he required two suitcases and a trolley.

By comparison, uncertainty packed into a single pocket. It travels surprisingly well. It occupies very little space. It slips easily into the smallest of spaces. When the road changes direction, uncertainty changes direction too. When new evidence appears, uncertainty makes room for it. When unexpected discoveries emerge from the margins, uncertainty usually says: “Interesting.” And continues walking.

This leads naturally to: Sigi's Rule #2: Uncertainty travels surprisingly well. Experience suggests it is worth bringing along. ✒️ Sigi

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