Sounds True: Insights at the Edge Maggie Jackson: Being Uncertain as a Form of Wakefulness
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Aug 12, 2025 Maggie Jackson, an award-winning author and journalist, shares insights from her book, "Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure." She dives into how embracing uncertainty can spark growth, creativity, and resilience. The discussion highlights the difference between fear and genuine uncertainty, emphasizing curiosity and mindfulness. Maggie also touches on strategies to build tolerance for the unknown, and how embracing ambiguity fosters adaptability in both personal and professional realms. This conversation is a treasure chest of wisdom for navigating life's unpredictabilities.
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Uncertainty Is A New Scientific Field
- A new interdisciplinary science studies human uncertainty itself, not just probabilistic models.
- Researchers now ask how brains experience uncertainty and when it helps or harms cognition.
Uncertainty Comes In Many Flavors
- Uncertainty is not a single thing; it varies by degree, threat, and mode.
- Different forms include life-or-death threat, banal choices, and curiosity-driven exploration.
Tell Arousal From Fear
- Learn to distinguish uncertainty's arousal from fear's shutdown response.
- Recognize arousal as 'there's something to be learned here' and avoid slipping into survival mode.
