We live in
an unpredictable world. Sometimes the uncertainty is
exciting and stimulating. Other times it is intimidating and
limiting.
Sometimes work brings more uncertainty than we think we can
handle. We like our future to be largely predictable so we can
design and plan our successes. Unwelcome changes threaten our
sense of security and well-being.
When this happens, the future seems to be particularly risky so
a typical response is to 'play safe'. The temptation is to close
down horizons, cling to familiar habits and batten down the
hatches to ride out the storm.
Sometimes people use the term 'uncertain future' to describe
their experience yet this is pure tautology - the future by its
very nature is uncertain. Any predictions we make can only be
informed guesswork.
Of course, some things are more predictable than others - the
sun will very likely set tonight - yet in our own lives there is
always a large dose of the unknown. Rather than pretending it is
not there, how can we equip ourselves better to deal with it?
Think of those rare people you have met that can deal with
whatever life throws at them. You just know that whatever
happens, they will be able to handle it. This can't be the
result of prediction and planning but a fundamental belief in
their own powers and being OK about not knowing what is going to
happen next.
For us, the way forward is to increase our own versatility. When
we have a wider range of behaviours to draw on, and the
confidence to use them, we can be more flexible in our needs and
responses.
Here are 7 strategies you can use to build your 'flexibility
muscles':
1. Remember you have choices. You don't need to be a passive
victim of circumstance; you can be proactive in the way you
engage with reality around you
2. Expand your creativity - enlarge your horizons, experiment
with new ideas and meet new people. Engage in activities you
have not tried before. Ask yourself 'What if ...' questions
3. Create new habits - ones that generate enthusiasm and energy.
Deliberately break from patterns of behavior that have become
too familiar. For example, read a book that people who know you
well would not associate with you. Be creative - what else could
you do differently?
4. Look for the learning in every experience. What is working
well? What could be better next time?
5. Believe that change brings opportunity. When one door shuts,
another opens. Be vigilant because it might not be where you
expect it
6. Look for ways to manage risk rather than avoid it. Choose
your wave and surf it
7. Boost your energy. Look after you health. Avoid energy
vampires who drain your energy. Ration how much 'news' you
expose yourself to. Spend more time with those people and
activities that inspire you
As your flexibility grows, with a wider range of behaviour and
thinking, so does your competence and confidence to engage the
future. You can become comfortable with not knowing.
About the author:
Trevor Hill helps people who want to transform their working
lives by generating greater energy, focus and satisfaction. As a
qualified coach, he is able to make a difference by drawing on
30 years experience working across a wide range of organisations
and sectors. He publishes free inspiration tips every two weeks
- simply sign up on his website
http://www.inspiration-at-work.co.uk
