Navigating Uncertainty

Have you ever felt like you're going into the unknown like Elsa?
Maybe your manager asked you to build and deliver a product for a client from scratch?
Or maybe you need to build features with less than enough documentation to start with?

I have

Sure it's not an easy situation.

So what should we do in that situation?

First, calm yourself down.

In that kind of situation it is easy to get overwhelmed. But don't let the situation let you down. Take a deep breath and calm down. You need a clear mind to make a move.

Make plan.

It will feel like you're in the middle of a dark tunnel. You know what will be at the end of the tunnel but maybe you're not sure where to land your step. Assess your surrounding and take a step anyway. Do what you can do with what you have. It is important also to do your assessment thoroughly, patiently. Otherwise, you might miss a small important detail that can be useful.

Uncertainties, unknowns, mean that we have a limited knowledge and information. So it is important to realize and accept that every new information we get along the way can alter our knowledge. Sometimes it means that you need to undo, redo, or even scrap everything that you have done. But don't be sad about it, take it as a learning process and you can be sure that you're going into the right direction.

See if there's someone who can help your journey.
Especially in a work setting, you will most likely have a coworker whom you can ask. Not necessarily you will get an answer from them, but maybe you will get an inspiration, a revelation, a new perspective, or another insight that you've missed.

Take a break and celebrate every milestones.

The journey can be long. So don't forget to take a break whenever you need it. You need to maintain your physical as well as your mental health.

That's all that I can share based on my experience. Do you have any other tips? Leave a comment!

Cheers and enjoy the journey!