Leading and Coaching Through Uncertainty

In today's fast-paced, ever-changing world, leaders and coaches are constantly navigating ambiguity—uncertain markets, shifting workplace dynamics, and unpredictable challenges. While ambiguity can create stress and hesitation, it also presents an opportunity for growth, innovation, and adaptability. The best leaders and coaches don’t fear uncertainty; they embrace it, guiding their teams and clients through the fog with clarity, confidence, and resilience.

Ambiguity arises when there are no clear answers, when the path forward is uncertain, and when traditional decision-making frameworks may not apply. It often manifests in unclear goals, shifting priorities, uncertain external conditions such as economic shifts or industry disruptions, complex interpersonal dynamics, and conflicting or unreliable information. In such situations, leaders cannot rely solely on past experiences or established strategies; instead, they must embrace a mindset of adaptability and experimentation.

Herminia Ibarra, in “Act Like a Leader, Think Like a Leader”, argues that leaders must experiment with new behaviors and mindsets to effectively adapt to uncertainty, emphasizing the value of learning through action rather than waiting for complete clarity. She highlights that effective leaders shift their identity and decision-making approach by engaging in small experiments, testing different strategies, and adjusting based on feedback. This active approach enables leaders to remain agile, make informed decisions in the face of uncertainty, and avoid the paralysis that often accompanies ambiguity.

One of Simon Sinek’s most influential concepts is the idea of the “infinite game,” from the book by the same name, which contrasts with the finite mindset many leaders adopt.?Leaders who play a finite game focus on short-term wins, competition, and immediate outcomes, whereas those with an infinite mindset understand that leadership is an ongoing journey of adaptability and continuous progress. This approach is particularly useful when dealing with uncertainty, as it shifts the focus from trying to "win" in the short term to sustaining long-term success through innovation and resilience. Leaders with an infinite mindset accept that change is constant and use it as an opportunity for learning and growth rather than a threat. By shifting from “How do we win?” to “How do we keep improving?”, leaders can foster a culture that embraces ambiguity rather than fearing it.

One of the most effective ways to lead through uncertainty is to reframe it as an opportunity rather than a roadblock. Instead of seeing a lack of clarity as a problem, leaders can encourage curiosity and exploration by asking, “What new opportunities could emerge from this uncertainty?” Nathan and Susannah Harmon Furr, in “The Upside of Uncertainty”,?emphasize that reframing uncertainty as a gateway to possibility rather than a threat is a fundamental skill for leaders and individuals navigating the unknown. Their research highlights that those who successfully manage uncertainty do so by shifting their mindset from fear-based reactions to a perspective that embraces ambiguity as an opportunity for growth, innovation, and resilience.

Equally important is the ability to cultivate comfort with not knowing. Leaders and coaches don’t need to have all the answers; rather, they create environments where learning, experimentation, and adaptation are valued over immediate certainty. The Furrs argue that reframing uncertainty reduces paralysis and increases confidence in taking action, helping individuals recognize that discomfort in the unknown is often a precursor to breakthrough moments. Encouraging a mindset of continuous learning and progress over perfection helps teams and individuals move forward with greater confidence, adaptability, and openness to new possibilities.

Decision-making agility is another crucial skill in times of ambiguity. Instead of waiting for complete clarity, leaders can take small, testable actions and adjust based on new information. Seeking multiple perspectives before making a choice and maintaining flexibility allow for more informed and adaptable decisions. However, amid all this uncertainty, anchoring in core values and long-term purpose provides a much-needed foundation. When external circumstances shift, relying on deeply held values can serve as a compass, helping individuals and teams make decisions that align with their mission.

Psychological safety also plays a critical role in navigating uncertainty. Amy Edmondson, a leading expert on psychological safety, emphasizes that when individuals feel safe to express ideas, take risks, and admit mistakes without fear of punishment or ridicule, they are more likely to engage, learn, and adapt in uncertain environments. Ambiguity can trigger fear, but when leaders intentionally foster a culture of openness, curiosity, and trust, they create space for healthy risk-taking, experimentation, and collective problem-solving. Edmondson’s research highlights that teams operating in psychologically safe environments outperform others in navigating complexity and change, as they are more willing to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and learn from failures rather than retreating into silence or avoidance.

Another key to leading through ambiguity is communication. Brene? Brown, a leading expert on leadership and vulnerability, emphasizes that clear, honest, and transparent communication is essential for building trust and resilience in uncertain times. In her book “Dare to Lead”, Brené?Brown argues that leaders who embrace transparency—acknowledging what they know, what they don’t know, and what they are doing to find answers—create environments where individuals feel more secure and engaged. Even when all the answers aren’t available, maintaining open and consistent communication helps ease uncertainty and fosters a culture of trust.

Coaching becomes especially powerful in times of ambiguity because it equips individuals with the mindset and skills needed to navigate uncertainty. By fostering confidence in decision-making, helping individuals recognize their strengths, reframing challenges as opportunities, and guiding them in creating actionable steps even without complete clarity, coaching enables forward momentum. Coaches who lead with curiosity, presence, and adaptability empower their clients not just to manage ambiguity but to embrace it as a catalyst for growth and transformation.

Ultimately, we can wait but ambiguity isn’t going anywhere. It has become a central part of leadership, work, and life. The best leaders and coaches recognize that their role isn’t to eliminate uncertainty but to help others build the resilience, adaptability, and confidence needed to navigate it successfully. By fostering a focus on values, maintaining a learning mindset, and embracing uncertainty as a space for growth, leaders and coaches can transform ambiguity from a source of fear into a catalyst for innovation and progress.

For members only of The Global Coaching Network, a book study group will be meeting to discuss “The Upside of Uncertainty”? beginning March 27th.? If you are a member, click here to register for the book club.