“How do I prepare myself for the worst?” a friend of mine asked me the other day, and it got me thinking: why do we tend to anticipate the worst outcomes first? Why are we so apprehensive of the unknown, fearing it might betray us? Why is the future often linked with anxiety rather than serenity?

We are often afraid of the unknown, fearing that the future will resemble our past, as we are conditioned to believe that history repeats itself. However, humans are not bound by history; instead, they continually reinvent themselves. If you find yourself apprehensive about the future, I urge you to view it as an opportunity rather than a menace—a source of delightful surprises or an engaging narrative that is still unfolding. At times, knowing the outcome beforehand spoils the story, and life is ultimately about the journey.

If you’re anxious about tomorrow, focus on what you can control today—what you possess in the present moment. Concentrate solely on today and how you can navigate through it. Consider how you can improve today even slightly, how you can transform this day into a positive experience in case history repeats itself tomorrow. Reflect on making today meaningful; perhaps that’s the most effective way to prepare for tomorrow.

If you are scared of the worst that can happen, think of all the times in the past you were scared of what may come, and thought of worst case scenarios that never happened.

Remember the time you saw a psychiatrist who said you could make yourself feel better by clearing your mind of worries and negativity? They basically said it’s all about your mindset, not your situation.

If you fear failure, reflect on past regrets stemming from missed opportunities, and the “what ifs” and “if onlys” that arose from moments of inaction. Consider failure not as a lack of success, but as a consequence of not attempting. Regard failure as a lost battle yet a winnable war. Regard it as a complex ally rather than a malicious foe.

If you fear not being enough, consider the tale of the twenty-dollar bill: even after being dropped, dirtied, and almost torn apart, many still desired it because it retained its value. Whether dirty or clean, crumpled or pristine, deemed good enough or not, your worth remains constant. You are still invaluable to those who cherish you, both now and in the future.

If you are scared of heartbreak, think of the wisdom and strength you gained from your heartbreak, think of the self-discoveries you made out of your isolation and introspection. Think of the times that your brokenness inspired you to write, or sing, or dance, or just pack your bags and travel. Think of how you were not afraid of love once upon a time, and why you should never be afraid of love again. If you are afraid of love, perceive it as an act of giving rather than receiving. If you are afraid of love, think of how you can be even more afraid of loneliness.

If you fear death, reflect on the moments when you felt as if a part of you had died inside, yet managed to find hope again. Consider the near-death experiences you’ve encountered and how they heightened your awareness and gratitude for life. Acknowledge our mortality as an inevitable reality. Since you’re here now, embrace the present moment fully. Allow the awareness of death to inspire you to lead a bold life. Let’s live as if every moment counts, rather than regretting a life unlived when the end draws near.

Inspired by my mentor Rania Naim.