Thriving When Certainties Crumble: Finding Strength In Uncertainty
These days, the world is presenting us overlapping crises — political and economical power shifts, technological tsunamis like ChatGPT and large-scale layoffs by once-stable companies. Certainties we once relied upon seem to crumble overnight. For many, this reality feels overwhelming, leaving us questioning how to move forward when our future feels so unsteady.
Yet, even in times of intense change, there are opportunities for growth, transformation and clarity. When everything around you seems to change, anchoring yourself becomes essential. In this blogpost, I offer you three ways to find strength in uncertainty and turn chaos into a way forward.
1. Anchor Yourself in What Matters Most
During periods of change, it’s tempting to focus on external factors we can’t control. You might think: “How will THEY decide?” Instead, turn it around and consider this: What are YOUR core values, and how can they guide your decisions? These values act as your inner compass when you are forced to make decisions.
Start by reflecting on what has sustained you in past periods of difficulty. For example, were there relationships, skills, or beliefs that helped you endure? Focusing on these anchors can provide a sense of stability and purpose. By understanding what truly matters to you, you can approach uncertain times with a clearer sense of direction.
Practical exercise: Write down three moments when you overcame significant challenges. What values or strengths helped you? How can you build on them now?
You can download my free values overview here.
2. Strengthen Your “Uncertainty Fitness”
Just as physical fitness helps the body handle stress, “uncertainty fitness” equips the mind to navigate change. This means cultivating the capacity to adapt, stay curious, and maintain hope.
One way to build this resilience is by shifting your perspective. When faced with uncertainty, ask yourself, “What opportunities might this situation offer?” Instead of a victim, turn into an actor. See the layoff or restructuring as an opportunity for your personal development. Don’t get scared, get organised. There’s a lot of support out there. One example is my online course MoveMyCareer.
In coaching, I’ve seen clients transform seemingly devastating situations into stepping stones for reinvention. A project manager recently laid off used the moment to upskill in sustainable business practices, and transitioned into a job that fulfills her.
Practical tip: Each day, take 5 minutes to reflect on one thing that’s working well in your life despite the chaos. By focusing on what’s thriving, you train your brain to see possibility instead of limitation.
3. Build a Practice of Appreciation
When everything feels uncertain, grounding yourself in appreciation offers a powerful shift. This isn’t about ignoring challenges but about recognizing what is strong and stable in the present.
Start small: What relationships support you? What skills or resources do you have that others value? Appreciation brings clarity to your strengths and fosters connection with those around you.
To go deeper, try a simple appreciative inquiry exercise: Think about a recent time you collaborated effectively. What made it successful? How can you bring that energy into your current challenge?
You have the power to thrive
Uncertainty is inevitable, but your response influences the outcome! By anchoring yourself in your values, building resilience, and embracing appreciation, you can transform an uncertain situation into an opportunity for growth.
If you think that I can be of value to you as a coach, trainer, facilitator, speaker or thinking partner, feel free to contact me.
