We always struggle with uncertainty. Especially if it is associated with danger. In a state of uncertainty, the brain begins to work in stress mode and it becomes difficult to make decisions. Despite the fact that uncertainty is now a part of our lives, some things can and should be done. Experts of the Institute of Cognitive Modeling talk about them.
1. Shorten the planning horizon. We are used to having plans for the long term, and this is a really good strategy in terms of stability. In conditions of uncertainty, you should plan your actions for shorter intervals – what to do during the day, what are your plans for the next few hours.
2. Create alternatives. Come up with several options even for short-term plans based on the principle of “if.., then…”.
3. Find sources of useful information. You should not try to find out all the information, cover all the sources. Pick a few that you trust and focus on them.
4. Discuss the solution. Even in conditions of planning for a few hours, it is important that all decisions are discussed and all “pros” and “cons” are weighed. Take at least a few minutes to discuss before planning.
5. Stick to a routine. Daily mundane procedures that will help maintain a sense of stability. Cleaning, cooking, self-care.
6. Get involved in activities. Choose anything that can be useful and that you can do. The best activity is the one you choose and do yourself. At this time, the brain is able to focus on one thing, and thus stays in tune.
7. Sleep whenever possible. When it seems that you will be able to fall asleep, even a few minutes with your eyes closed will help you recover and stabilize.
8. Do not punish yourself for mistakes. Under conditions of uncertainty, the correctness criteria for decisions are blurred. Feeling guilty and blaming yourself will not help you make better decisions, it will only block your thinking. Say to yourself: “I made the best decision I was capable of under the circumstances.”
