TANJA ELGENDY, MSC,
Consultant, Trainer and Coachin | TU Career Center
Powering through Uncertainty
Navigating the Future in a Changing World
The energy transition reminds us that uncertainty is an inevitable part of shaping the future. As we work towards sustainable and secure energy systems, we cannot predict every outcome. Driving change and innovation, we must accept that uncertainty and risk will always remain. The same applies to your personal and professional path. Choosing a major, applying for jobs and deciding where you invest your time and energy often means moving forward without knowing how things will turn out. The good news is that you can learn to navigate uncertainty. This is called uncertainty tolerance and can be developed just like any other skill. It is the ability to move forward without having all the answers.
Just as the energy transition requires us to act now and move ahead while we still lack certain answers, you can learn to develop uncertainty tolerance and start with the following:
Small steps
Before we jump in a lake, we test the water first. Start small when you expose yourself to uncertainty. Try something partly new, for example, attend a new event with a trusted friend or visit a familiar place on your own. You can build confidence step by step.
Exposure instead of avoidance
Like organisations, imagine and plan for different future scenarios instead of focusing on a single outcome. Think about what could happen, what you hope will happen, and how you would respond if things turned out differently. Reading science fiction can also enhance your imagination.
Create more opportunities
While traditional career paths are changing, new opportunities arise, maybe even more fulfilling ones. Try to be curious about the future. Embrace new possibilities, follow your interests and build a diverse skill set.
Plan in shorter time horizons
Rather than creating a rigid ten-year plan, think in shorter time periods. Stay flexible and check in with yourself regularly to see where you are and whether your goals and plans need adjusting as circumstances change.
