There is a proverb that says: change is uncertain, but acceptance is inevitable.

When you start to embrace change and start to go through the process of acceptance, the real journey of leading through change and uncertainty begins. I describe this process as a journey because change isn’t just a process, it’s a whole new adventure and experience that one must fully embrace in order for it to be fruitful.

Why? Because change is always uncertain and unpredictable. The true meaning of leading through change and uncertainty is to mold ourselves in a new direction, a new process that often puts to test our will to survive and overcome challenges through the uncertainty of situations and life itself.

There’s a powerful saying from American poet and intellectualist, Adrienne Rich, that says: “The moment of change is the only poem.”

Why do we always take change as an obstacle when, in reality, changes aren’t real obstacles? Changes are moments of new beginnings, new opportunities, and new life. When we do decide to embrace the journey of new beginnings, those moments of change are exactly like poems: sweet and horror emotions all coming together at once and a fear of failure whispering to our ears.

Why are We Often So Afraid of Change?

We are often reluctant to embrace or accept change because we are afraid of taking risks and losing in a game called ‘life.’ Life, however, is full of struggle and opportunity. Changes are like a chain that connects every phase of our lives with grace and glory.

The most emotional aspect of change is not the transformation itself, but our ability to cope up with the uncertainties of life. If there is anything that the pandemic has taught us, it’s that we have to appreciate even the smallest moments life blesses us with because we never know what’s going to happen next. While in the past it was wars, crises, and recessions, this year, it was the COVID-19 pandemic. Who knows what’ next? The challenges COVID-19 brought with it feel very much like a roller coaster ride of emotional challenges and financial crisis.

Leading through change and uncertainty requires us to consider multiple viewpoints in order to have a holistic perspective of the situation. Whether we like it or not, we ought to accept the fact that change is constant and that uncertainty is perhaps the only certain thing we have in life.

Here are 7 key points I’ve prepared that we need to consider when leading through change and uncertainty. We must remember though, that for us to successfully embrace new opportunities, we must do so graciously and with hope – because hope leads us to positivity, and positivity leads us to acceptance of even the most uncomfortable of realities.

1. Trust Yourself

When it comes to leading through change and uncertainty, it’s really important to fully trust yourself. In the end, we are the outcome of our own decisions. Every action, as Newton would argue, has a positive and equal reaction. Therefore, we must always keep in mind the consequences that our actions and decisions will bring to us.

Trust yourself and the decisions you are about to make. Changes come unexpectedly, but the way you face and lead yourself through them will define the most important of your relationships: that with yourself.

2. Stability of Mind

Having stability in life when leading through change and uncertainty is of massive importance. A stable mind helps to better analyze situations and will empower you to make the right decisions.

Changes often create clashes of thoughts within our minds, but the stability of both your thoughts and emotions can help you to focus on what truly matters and set you back on track.

3. Accept the Imperfections

Nothing is ever completely good or bad, right or wrong. In fact, everything is in perfect, harmonious balance. It’s really important to change your perception of what ‘perfection’ entails with time, to see this world in a new light. Stop worrying about your imperfection and what others might think of you. Be you – the people that truly love, support, and cheer for you will want for you to be nothing but that, your most authentic self. 

4. Don’t Fight Alone

Most people isolate themselves when facing change and uncertainty. They ground such behavior in the belief that they need to solve everything on their own. But they forget the fact that that there’s nothing worthwhile that can be accomplished alone in this life.

Leading through change and uncertainty requires teamwork and collaboration. We ought to better distribute our energy and effort on what truly matters and ask for help when needed. Asking for help, rather than being a sign of weakness, is a sign of strength – it signals that you’re brave enough to be vulnerable.

A single effort can never lead the whole process. It’s essential to include people to lead bravely in situations of uncertainty and change. Stay humble, and make room for others to join you in your journey.

5. Build Flexibility

It’s really important to have a strong sense of adaptability and flexibility when we are going through change and uncertainty. Surprises and unexpected events are just part of the journey and, regardless of what they bring with them, we ought to be prepared for them. 

Having the flexibility to adjust to different terms and conditions while having the adaptability to accept unwanted outcomes can make a massive difference when dealing with adversity. Staying flexible can help us stay calm and curious all at the same time.

6. Remove Negativity

We all know how frustrating it is to be stuck in our own thoughts – all of which are constantly affecting our mindset. When that happens, try replacing those negative thoughts with positive affirmations. For example, when an unpleasant situation arises, rather than seeing it as a negative experience, turn that around by looking at it as a learning opportunity. Change comes without previous notice and it’s only with a positive mindset that we would be able to fully accept it.

7. Hope

It might surprise you to see ‘hope’ in the list of key points to overcome adversity. But let me tell you this, ‘hope’ is a key component when it comes to leading through change and uncertainty. 

When embarking on our journey, we need to provide hope, inspiration, and a path forward for both ourselves and others. Share your thoughts, vision, and believe in yourself. Remain hopeful whatever happens. Hope is the very last thing we lose. It will help create a different, positive atmosphere around you.

What truly matters is to understand the fact that we can’t control the changes and uncertainties we face. But we can drive ourselves through it very graciously and successfully by adopting the strategies outlined above. It will continuously help you to learn, grow, and improve your way of life towards a better future.