Facing Uncertainty

Leading the Gap Issue 4: Facing Uncertainty by Dr. Celina Peerman

We are, all of us, leading through uncertainty. Sometimes it’s personal—a role shift, a relationship change, or a moment of self-questioning. Sometimes it’s organizational—when everything familiar feels fragile or out of sync. And sometimes, it’s simply the in-between—where you’re not where you were, but not yet where you're going either.

This is the space where leaders are most tested—not because they have no answers, but because they’re expected to act anyway.

If that’s where you are, I will offer whatever I can to help.

When Doubt Shows Up, So Does Growth

As I’ve shared in my TEDx talk and in 29 Owls, uncertainty is not a detour—it’s part of the process. And doubt isn’t a weakness.

“Doubt is not the opposite of confidence—it’s the invitation to clarity.” (Let Data Be Your Compass – Owl #4)

Too often, we try to push through uncertainty with a flurry of over-analysis or avoidance. But leadership isn’t about having full certainty before moving. It’s about asking the right questions, honoring what matters, and choosing the next step.

What 29 Owls Says About Navigating Uncertainty

Here are three principles from the book that feel especially relevant:

“Effective decision-making requires understanding both the risks and rewards.” (Risk Is Part of the Ride – Owl #3) Uncertainty doesn’t mean ignore the risks—it means evaluate them. Name them. And move forward with your values intact.

“Flexibility is a leadership strength, not a weakness.” (Shift Happens. So Can You. – Owl #9) The wisest leaders know when to pivot. When new information shows up, adaptability becomes credibility.

“When you invite others into the decision-making process, you gain access to experience, knowledge, and angles you might miss alone.” (Ask. Listen. Grow. – Owl #7) Uncertainty shrinks in the presence of diverse insight. Ask more. Decide better.

Staying Grounded When Certainty Isn’t Available

In times of uncertainty, try these three anchoring practices:

1. Return to your values. Ask: What do I want this decision or moment to reflect about who I am and what I lead for?
2. Set potential goals, not perfect ones. Clarity often emerges mid-move. Focus on direction over destination.
3. Normalize doubt. Say it out loud. Model it. Create space for others to say: I don’t know yet—but I’m learning.

Normalize doubt during change.

It’s not a flaw—it’s often the first sign that transformation is taking root.

Questions for Reflection

• Where in your life or work are you feeling most uncertain right now?
• What values could guide your next step, even if the whole path isn’t clear?
• Who could offer wisdom or grounding as you move forward?

Uncertainty doesn’t mean you’re unqualified. It means you’re in the work that matters.

With you in the space between clarity and courage, Dr. Celina

Learn More

🎙️ Podcast episodes like “Stress Fracture,” “Not Enough,” and “Ready, Set, Why” explore how doubt, resilience, and intentional choices shape our leadership. 👉 https://workplacechameleon.buzzsprout.com

📘 29 Owls: Wisdom for Stronger Decisions, Tough Conversations, and True Accountability Preorder or request a sneak peek here: 👉 www.drcelinapeerman.com/bookstore

🎓 The on-demand course Making Good Decisions offers practical support for leaders navigating ambiguity and complexity. We also have 40 courses immediately available for you or your team.👉 https://www.leadershiplearningondemand.com