I first spoke about navigating uncertain times during a workshop I led for a tech company in the early days of COVID. The focus then was on empathy and critical thinking, and how to separate fact from fiction in a world turned upside down. Reflecting on that, I may write more about it in the future.
This post, though, is about fear and how we can acknowledge it while continuing to move forward.
At Watson Nelson Consulting, we see this challenge often. We work through the vulnerability that comes with being human, validating real emotions while staying committed to values-based leadership.
Fear Pushes Us to React, While Values Help Us Stay Grounded
Right now, shifting policies, executive orders, and regulations are reshaping how we live and work. Some of these changes test our dedication to equity, inclusion, and progress. With these shifts, we can become fearful, and that's okay to acknowledge.
Fear can urge us to respond quickly, pushing individuals and organizations to change course before fully understanding the situation. It causes second-guessing, whether to adjust strategies, commitments, or beliefs ahead of time.
But decisions made from fear rarely help. They lead to instability, confusion, and a loss of focus on what truly matters: who we are and what we stand for.
This is when we need to pause and steady ourselves.
Let Your Mission and Values Lead
When the world feels unpredictable, staying connected to your mission and values is critical. These are your compass, keeping you focused on why you exist, who you serve, and what you believe in. They guide you to make decisions rooted in principles, not panic.
Instead of asking, “What should we change to avoid potential risks?” try asking:
Does this change align with our values, or does it challenge them?
How can we support our teams during this time?
What needs reaffirming instead of immediate adjustment?
This isn’t about ignoring challenges or refusing to adapt. It’s about being thoughtful and intentional. Decisions should reflect your mission, not just shield you from uncertainty.
Courage in the Face of Uncertainty
We don’t know what’s coming next. Policies will shift, and challenges will emerge. But while some leaders act from fear, others lean on tools that have advanced fairness and justice in the past, tools like collaboration, advocacy, and community action.
We’ve endured difficult moments before. We’ve learned, grown, and adapted - not by reacting impulsively, but by staying focused on what matters most.
Fear is Loud, but Our Purpose is Louder.
Now is the time to remind ourselves who we are and what we stand for. To double down on our mission, support our teams, and act in ways that reflect our values.
We can’t predict every twist and turn, but we can hold fast to what we know is true. That is our power, and that’s what will move us forward. Let's support each other in this endeavor.
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