2.12 Developing a tolerance for ambiguity Understand techniques, strategies, & systems used to foster self-understanding & enhance relationships with others

What is Tolerance? Tolerance – the capacity to accept deviation from the norm Being able to accept something or someone who is different than what you consider normal Respecting that person’s rights and opinions blog.adw.org

What is Ambiguity? Ambiguity – doubtfulness or uncertainty of meaning or intention Teacher gives you an assignment but no instructions on how to start or complete The possibility of interpreting an expression in two or more distinct ways Your boss always greets you with a smile but today he or she hasn’t even acknowledged you are around You did something to make them mad with you They are having a bad day Something happened before you got to work to upset them

What is a Tolerance for Ambiguity? Entrepreneurs are willing to forge ahead with what they feel is the right direction while dealing with the inner voice telling them they could be wrong Entrepreneurs have a strong tolerance for ambiguity The entrepreneurial traits of self-confidence, optimism, and problem solving develop this strong tolerance. flawlessconfidence.com

How Do They Do It? Entrepreneurs develop a tolerance for ambiguity by: Gathering all information possible Brainstorming assumptions to close the gaps in information they collected Keeping those assumptions to themselves Considering alternate assumptions Devising a plan for testing their assumptions Executing their plan

Factors Impacting Tolerance for Ambiguity Nature and upbringing How much tolerance have you experienced in your life? Have you been exposed to unfamiliar environments where you had to adapt? Education What level of education have you had? Did your education set defined rules or were you encouraged to “think outside the box?” Early career experiences Self-confidence Higher self-esteem and confidence leads to a higher tolerance Optimism Picture from: midwestprogress.org

How to Further Develop a Tolerance for Ambiguity To build up your tolerance for ambiguity remember: Even in the toughest situation, you can always control your response to a situation. Your reaction is your choice. Recognizing what you can and can’t control will increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and lower your anxiety eknazar.com

Managing Ambiguity in the Business World 10 principles that provide a rule of thumb for managing ambiguity in the business environment: Organize your thoughts Maintain a professional attitude Refrain from making judgments about others Keep an open mind Don’t make assumptions or jump to conclusions Keep emotions in check Be slow to take offense Give others the benefit of the doubt Keep control of yourself Ask what your immediate purpose is, what is the scope of the problem, what are the constraints on your response? jr.tfs.ca