Chapter 6: How Can You Embrace Uncertainty?

Synopsis
This chapter focuses on how to embrace uncertainty on a theoretical level. It presents a model that visualizes the tensions that leaders must manage. Wise leaders understand how the wave-like rhythm of crests of uncertainty and troughs of certainty provides the essential tension for meaningful progress. Two activities determine whether you are moving toward certainty or uncertainty: exploring increases uncertainty as you reach for new possibilities; refining increases certainty as you further develop an existing idea, endeavor or approach. Several implications of the model are that there is an optimum point of both uncertainty and certainty and that progressing from one platform to another provides the implicit measure of effectiveness.

Outline

1. The model
2. Key concepts of the model
1. Exploring
2. Refining
3. Platforms
4. Implications
1. First, there is an optimum point of uncertainty
2. Second, there is an optimum point of certainty
3. Third, no platform is perfect
4. Fourth, progressing from one platform to another provides the implicit measure of effectiveness
5. Fifth, the perception of the amount of uncertainty is directly related to the platform on which you stand
6. Sixth, mapping your position on the model can be revealing
1. Tug-of-war
2. Never-ending mountain climb
3. Never-ending ski slope
7. Finally, effective leaders intuitively discern when to engage others in exploring and refining

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