10 Steps to Leading Through Uncertainty

Uncertainty is part of every journey. Whether you’re guiding a team through a

Business challenge or navigating an unpredictable climb, the path isn’t always clear.

The difference between hesitation and progress is confident leadership.

Being able to make decisions with clarity while inspiring others to follow is what

separates good leaders from great ones.

I’ve faced countless moments of uncertainty in both mountaineering and business.

Each time, the lessons have been the same: trust yourself, communicate clearly,

and stay grounded. Here’s how to lead effectively when the outcome is unclear.

Clarify Your Purpose. Know why you are leading and what outcome you are aiming for. Purpose provides direction even when the path is unclear.
Gather Information Quickly. Collect key facts and insights to make informed decisions. Don’t wait for perfect information.
Trust Your Experience. Your past experiences provide guidance. Rely on lessons learned to navigate the unknown with confidence.
Make Decisions Decisively. Avoid paralysis by analysis. Make the best decision possible with the information at hand and take action.
Communicate Clearly. Keep your team informed about your decisions, reasoning, and next steps. Clarity reduces fear and builds trust.
Encourage Input and Collaboration. Leverage the knowledge and perspective of others. Collaboration helps uncover blind spots and strengthens your decisions.
Stay Adaptable. Conditions will change. Be willing to adjust plans while keeping the overall objective in mind. Flexibility demonstrates strong leadership.
Model Calm and Confidence. Your team looks to you for cues. Staying composed under uncertainty inspires confidence and encourages others to do the same.
Break Challenges Into Manageable Steps. Large problems can feel overwhelming. Focus on what can be achieved now and tackle challenges one step at a time.
Reflect and Learn After Each Decision. Review outcomes to identify what worked and what didn’t. Learning from uncertainty improves future leadership and decision-making.

The WYE Challenge

This week, identify one situation where you feel uncertain in your leadership role.

Apply at least three of these steps to navigate it effectively and notice the

difference in how your team responds.

Book Recommendation: “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek

This book provides insights on how to lead with clarity, trust, and purpose,

especially during uncertain times.

Uncertainty is inevitable, but leadership does not require all the answers.

By staying grounded, making informed decisions, and inspiring confidence in others,

you can guide any team or project through the unknown successfully.

Let’s keep climbing.

Best,

Mark

What is one decision you made under uncertainty and

what lesson did it teach you about leadership?

Comment below and let me know—I’d love to hear your story.

Let’s keep the conversation going!