Uncertainty affects everyone differently. For some, it means shifting workplace priorities. For others, it’s job loss or a major career disruption. Whatever uncertainty you’re facing, this article is here to help you navigate the next steps — without ignoring the challenges that come with change.
Uncertainty is Everywhere — How Do We Move Forward?
In today's rapidly changing landscape, many of us are grappling with uncertainty. Whether you're a federal employee, a contractor, an investor, a scientist relying on government grants, or part of a community impacted by shifting policies, the unpredictability of the current environment can feel overwhelming.
For some, this means waiting for decisions on budgets and projects. For others, it’s dealing with layoffs, funding cuts, or drastic changes in career direction.
What’s going to happen next?
How will this affect my job, my team, my mission?
What should I do right now?
These are not easy questions, and if you’re feeling stressed, you are not alone. Our brains crave certainty. When things feel out of our control, we can react in ways that might not serve us well—like making impulsive decisions or shutting down completely.
So how do we navigate this kind of uncertainty in a way that keeps us moving forward, rather than stuck in fear or frustration? Let’s talk about it.
How Our Brains React to Uncertainty
When faced with uncertainty, we instinctively try to "solve" the situation. You might feel the urge to take control in any way possible—like quitting your job, jumping into an immediate (but not ideal) alternative, or resisting any change just to maintain the status quo.
Or maybe the opposite happens—you freeze, avoid making decisions, and find yourself stuck in a loop of “waiting to see what happens.”
Both reactions are completely normal. Our brains are wired to seek certainty. But here’s the catch—sometimes, our knee-jerk reactions work against us.
Think of it like this: If you're lost in a dense fog, running in a random direction might make you feel like you're making progress—but it could send you straight off a cliff. On the other hand, standing completely still might keep you safe, but it won’t get you where you need to go.
So what’s the alternative? How do we move forward when the path ahead is unclear?
What We Can Learn from Economics (Yes, Really!)
When financial markets become uncertain, investors don’t panic and pull all their money out (at least, the wise ones don’t). Instead, they shift their investments into stable, long-term assets—things that hold their value no matter what happens in the short term.
What if we applied that same thinking to our careers and well-being? Instead of reacting emotionally or freezing in place, we can invest in what is stable and valuable:
Your skills and strengths that will serve you in any situation
The relationships and collaborations you build, keeping you connected and informed
The work that has long-term meaning and impact
By focusing on these "solid investments," you create a foundation that will help you weather whatever changes come next.
So, What Can You Do Right Now?
🔹 Double Down on Your Strengths
Instead of worrying about what's changing, focus on the work that truly matters—the things that make you (or your team) a high performer. Being great at what you do is always a good strategy, no matter the circumstances.
🔹 Communicate & Stay Informed
Uncertainty breeds rumors and misinformation. If you're feeling lost, reach out—ask questions, have conversations, and stay connected. This includes talking to people outside your immediate team—sponsors, partners, clients—to gain insights and provide support. Staying informed helps you make better decisions.
🔹 Adapt & Stay Open-Minded
Change can be frustrating, but it can also be an opportunity. If new policies or priorities are being introduced, is there a way to use them to your advantage? Could this be a chance to learn something new, take on a new project, or demonstrate leadership?
🔹 Take Care of Yourself
None of this is easy. Stress and anxiety can take a toll, so make sure you’re supporting yourself—whether that means talking to a mentor, practicing mindfulness, exercising, or just taking time to step away and breathe.
Advice for Leaders: Guiding Your Team Through Change & Uncertainty
If you're in a leadership position, your team looks to you for guidance during uncertain times. It's okay to acknowledge that you don't have all the answers.
Communicate Openly: Share what you know, and be honest about what you don’t. This builds trust and keeps your team informed.
Show Empathy: Recognize that your team members may be feeling stressed or anxious. Offering support can boost morale and cohesion.
Encourage Flexibility: Adaptability is key during times of change. Encourage your team to be open to new roles, responsibilities, or ways of working.
Focus on What Can Be Controlled: Help your team concentrate on tasks and goals within their control, which can reduce feelings of helplessness.
Reassure Without Overpromising: If your team is worried, sometimes saying “I don’t know what’s next, but I’m here to support you” can make all the difference.
Building Long-Term Resilience: Strengthening Your Ability to Handle Uncertainty
It’s one thing to manage uncertainty in the moment, but what if you could actually increase your capacity to deal with stress and change over time?
Just like physical training strengthens muscles, training your autonomic nervous system improves your ability to rise up to challenges, stay clear-minded and focused under stress, and recover quickly and efficiently.
A scientifically backed method to enhance resilience is resonance breathing HRV biofeedback training. Research shows that regular practice:
✅ Increases stress resilience—helping you stay calm and in control during high-pressure situations
✅ Improves focus and cognitive performance—so you can make better decisions, even in uncertainty
✅ Enhances recovery from stress—so you don’t carry stress from one challenge into the next
✅ Promotes long-term well-being—supporting both mental and physical health
By incorporating HRV biofeedback and resonance breathing into your self-care routine, you’re not just managing stress—you’re actively building your ability to thrive, no matter what changes come your way.
For a deeper dive into the science and practical application of these techniques, check out Dr. Inna Khazan’s book, Biofeedback and Mindfulness in Everyday Life: Improving Performance and Health.
Moving Forward, Even When Others Stand Still
Here’s something to think about: Uncertainty affects everyone. When big changes happen, many people get stuck—waiting, worrying, hesitating. But if you can keep moving forward, even in small ways, you put yourself ahead of the curve.
Think of it like a race where half the runners stop because they don’t know what’s coming next. If you just keep jogging—focusing on your work, your skills, your contributions—you might find yourself leaping ahead while others are still standing at the starting line.
Even in tough times, small steps forward can create opportunities you may not see yet. You’re not alone in this.
You’ve got this.
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