U is for… Uncertainty
We are going through a challenging and uncertain time. Properly managing uncertainty and coping with the unknown (and change) is a powerful skill, which you will have been developing over the last month or so.
It is human to want to know everything and to be in control.
If you are preparing for a promotion, your boss might be looking at how you are dealing with the current situation – such as how you are making decisions, how you are delegating work or supervising and supporting others. How you are managing your own stress.
The current uncertainty may also mean that your plans for promotion will need to be put on hold while we weather the storm (and any aftermath).
Here are some things that you can do to make it all a bit easier:
01. Have a plan B.
Prepare in advance where you can. Work out all the different possibilities and have a back-up plan. Preparing yourself for every outcome and having a back-up plan can help reduce stress and ensure that you have a course of action – whatever the outcome.
02. Accept that change happens
Most people dislike change. The fear of the unknown can lead to issues when dealing with problem-solving or decision making that involves uncertainty. Remember: Change is not always a bad thing. There will some good things that come out of the current situation.
03. Think positive thoughts… but don’t overthink
Uncertainty can make you think negatively and to imagine only the worst case scenarios. If you find that all your thoughts are negative, switch it up and hope for the best.
Yes, it can be difficult thinking positive when you are flooded with anxiety and negative thinking, but it is important to dispel your negative thinking and replace it with something more positive. Using a journal in these situations can be really helpful if you have trouble clearing your mind of negative thoughts.
Over thinking is a common problem. Again, things have a way of working out themselves, wait for them to — overthinking only makes it more stressful.
04. Stay Focused
Stay focused on what needs to be done and get it done. Take the uncertainty in your stride, trust your instincts and make do with the information that you do have. Take it one day at a time!
This blog post is an extract from our upcoming book “Prompt: 52 Prompts for Getting a Promotion Using Your Career Journal” which is being published later this year. You can pre-order your copy.
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