Unfolding the Unsaid!

Often, we work through times when next steps look ambiguous; either due to your lack of understanding the problem or due to the inefficiency of the related parties in communicating their expectations and feedback. This feels daunting, mostly because we are unsure of how to proceed. There are times you experience interim failures and you barely understand the ‘WHY’ behind it; but again, there is nothing more you could do at the time. The worst of all are prolonged response times, that stems out of priority mismatch; meaning something is super important for you but the same isn’t true at the other end.

In these scenarios of uncertainty, ambiguity, interim failures and “prolonged” response times, I’ve found four guiding principles invaluable. They not only help me navigate these challenges but also empower me to emerge stronger, better equipped to handle such situations.

Channelize your anxiety

Knowingly or unknowingly, anxiety surfaces when things are repeatedly not going your way. The urge to know it all increases. Prolonged response times intensifies this feeling, especially when awaiting crucial feedback or responses such as getting an email from the recruiter, or hearing back from the applications you have made, or getting a response from the person you have asked to refer you, etc.

Instead of fixating on these responses, engaging in activities that occupy your mind is beneficial. Use this time to strengthen your learnings, to showcase your subject matter expertise via writing articles, completing online challenges and showcasing them on your profile, etc. It is easier said than done, but I can at least attest that The only person who can motivate yourself is YOU! So take charge and shoot!

Reiterate on your strengths

You have been praised, thanked and appreciated for multiple times in your career at varying instances. During tough times, remember the strengths and achievements that define you. While learning is continuous and endless, acknowledge the worth of your current knowledge and experiences; even though it might not feel a lot in the moment. Keep polishing your skills without undermining your existing strengths.

Clearing Clutter and Identifying Explicit Improvement Areas

Oftentimes, while prepping for an interview or a test or something super important to you, you want to ensure you have everything nailed down to its finest details. Prioritizing every detail equally can clutter your mind.

Distinguish key improvement areas, allocate specific time for each, and follow a structured timetable religiously. This clears the confusion, helping you focus on what truly matters.

Trust The Process (TTP)

This is the most important part and often ignored! Trusting the Process demands patience, easier said than practiced; especially when you haven’t been able to achieve complete distraction from the process yet and you want to double-ensure that you do not keep any table unturned in fueling your journey. Interim failures as I’ve addressed it above can be anything ranging from unsuccessful job interviews to canceled positions, to unanswered, unexplained communications. Understand that these setbacks aren’t failures but obstacles lacking explanations.

All this step demands is to channelize anxiety by simultaneously working on improvement areas while reinforcing your strengths.

This framework aims to guide you through uncertainties, extended waiting periods, and interim setbacks. Share it with those navigating similar challenges or seeking motivation.