How I stay sane in an uncertain world

Uncertainty. A recurring topic in this newsletter—the events behind it, the related feelings, and strategies to manage.

Anyone reflecting on the world would be aware of the challenge.

I’m reading books on the topic, and take any excuse I can to discuss it with people in my orbit. Is the world really more uncertain, or does it just feel that way?

At the same time, I feel increasingly guilty about the solution I’ve personally found works best for me when it comes to dealing with the world, all the changes it brings, and everything else that goes on around me.

It’s simple, boring, AND very nerdy.

Some of you will stop reading when you find out. However, it has made a significant impact on how I feel about the future and the multiple ways it might unfold.

Want to know the secret?

Excel.

Yes. I have a massive Excel file containing goals, plans, scenarios, budgets, and numerous other details about my personal life.

I don’t use any magic formulas. But having all relevant information in one place makes it very easy to understand the impact any external changes — income, interest rates, and housing costs, etc. — will have on my life.

Knowing what bad scenarios might head my way and making a proactive plan for how to deal with them has made it so much easier not to worry.

The financial tracking might seem obvious—spending goals, saving goals, and so on. And yes, I track my personal finances diligently, which has resulted in my costs being less than half of what they used to be, and I didn’t even spend a lot before.

But it also works for other things. I’m very climate-conscious, and by tracking my daily consumption, I receive direct feedback on all the choices I make. Consuming less in some categories allows me to invest in other things that I value more.

There is something about tracking every single item you buy that forces you to be intentional. And something about being intentional that creates meaning and purpose. All of a sudden, the details matter because you realise the cost — both financially and spiritually — of living your life on autopilot.

I know. It sounds like the most boring way to live a life there is.

When an ex wanted us to track in Excel when we watered our plants, I started to question the relationship.

Still, I also believe that in a time when the world feels uncertain, finding something you feel in control of brings a sense of peace of mind. And compared to other control behaviours, Excel addiction feels like one area where the side effects are manageable.

The only thing I know for sure is that the plans in my Excel file will never unfold as they are currently set up. Things change, and that is the point.

However, every time I receive new information, the world changes, or when I update my goals or preferences, I revise. Several times a week.

And while I realise that my coolness just dropped, I would rather be uncool and at peace.

If you are anything like me, I’d love to be friends.

Anna

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