Over the past few years, an insight that has come up for me while collaborating with corporate teams is the willingness to say, “I don’t know.” I have found this especially true when confronted with a difficult project or initiative. Instead of determining the right course of action or sometimes admitting that we do not know what to do, I’ve observed that we fall in the trap of doing do what we know (education) or what we have done before (experience) because that is what we are comfortable doing. Understanding this idea is crucial for making informed decisions about hiring, leadership and personal development.
There is a fundamental difference between knowing what to do and having prior experience in doing it. While both can contribute to competence, they are not interchangeable.
Knowing what to do often comes from education. For example, a newly trained pilot can learn all the aerodynamics, controls and emergency protocols from textbooks and simulators. They may pass their exams with flying colors. However, their first real-world flight will be a vastly distinct experience from their classroom learning.
Experience, on the other hand, is the direct engagement in an activity over time, allowing for skill refinement and nuanced understanding. Continuing with the aviation example, an experienced pilot has faced turbulence, mechanical issues and last-minute flight plan changes. They have developed instincts that only emerge after repeated practice. This is why commercial airlines require a significant number of flight hours before allowing a pilot to command a plane.
We are presented with countless moments of uncertainty in our careers. At times, the path forward is unclear, and the feeling of not knowing what to do can be overwhelming. However, uncertainty does not have to be an obstacle — it can be an opportunity for growth and learning. Here are a few ideas to help navigate such moments effectively:
Gather information. Often the feeling of not knowing what to do stems from a lack of knowledge or understanding. Take the time to research your situation and explore different perspectives. Information is a powerful tool in decision-making.
Break it down into smaller steps. Large, complex problems can feel insurmountable, leading to paralysis. Instead of trying to solve everything at once, break the issue down into smaller, manageable steps. Focus on what you can do right now rather than worrying about the entire journey.
Seek guidance. You do not have to navigate uncertainty alone. Reach out to mentors, friends or experts who can provide guidance. Talking through your situation with someone else can offer valuable insights that you may not have considered.
Embrace flexibility. Not knowing what to do does not mean you have to remain stagnant. Sometimes, the best way forward is to take small, low-risk actions and see how they unfold. Be open to experimenting, adjusting your approach, and learning from the outcomes.
Trust yourself and act. Overthinking can lead to decision paralysis. At some point, after gathering information and considering your options, you must take a step forward. Trust your intuition and abilities. Even if you make mistakes, every action provides valuable experience that will help you refine your path.
Not knowing what to do is not a sign of failure or weakness; it is an opportunity to grow and develop resilience. By staying calm, seeking knowledge and taking thoughtful action, you can navigate uncertainty with confidence. The key is to keep moving forward, one step at a time. ●
Sanjay Singh is a Board Advisor and Private Investor
