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Developing Tolerance for Ambiguity: Embracing Challenges and Finding Solutions

Learn the importance of developing tolerance for ambiguity, and how it can enhance problem-solving skills. Discover methods to build tolerance for ambiguity and overcome obstacles.

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Developing Tolerance for Ambiguity: Embracing Challenges and Finding Solutions

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  1. Objective 2.12 • Tolerance - The capacity to accept deviation from the norm • Ambiguity – words or phrases with either a double meaning • Self-Confidence - A positive belief in your own talents, skills, and objectives. • Optimism - A positive attitude. • Problem-Solving -The ability to find solutions to obstacles • Education – The amount of learning a person has acquired

  2. Strosaker, G. (2010, January 14). Developing a tolerance for ambiguity. Retrieved April 14, 2011, from http://gregstrosaker.com/2010/01/developing-a-tolerance-for-ambiguity/ Importance of Developing Tolerance for Ambiguity The following steps are helpful in developing tolerance for ambiguity: Make sure all potential data sources are exhausted Brainstorm assumptions you can make to close the gaps in your data Document your assumptions transparently Consider alternate assumptions Define a process and rhythm for testing your assumptions Execute your plan

  3. Strosaker, G. (2010, January 14). Developing a tolerance for ambiguity. Retrieved April 14, 2011, from http://gregstrosaker.com/2010/01/developing-a-tolerance-for-ambiguity/ • Gather data • Brainstorm assumptions • Document assumptions • Define a process for reviewing assumptions • Execute

  4. Action Management Associates, Inc. (n.d.). Ambiguity: The fertile ground of problem solving. Retrieved March 4, 2011, from http://www.actionm.com/articles_ambiguity.aspx Role of Tolerance for Ambiguity in Problem-Solving The following questions can help evaluate and solve problems and implement solutions: • How many hours per month do you and/or managers in your company invest in meetings that do not result in measurable, positive changes in performance? • How many hours each week do managers spend in”putting out fires” rather thn proactively anticipating and preventing problems before they occur? • How often do people in your company fail to quickly and accurtely identify the real cause of problems, resulting in inadequte or ineffective solutions?

  5. Action Management Associates, Inc. (n.d.). Ambiguity: The fertile ground of problem solving. Retrieved March 4, 2011, from http://www.actionm.com/articles_ambiguity.aspx Role of Tolerance for Ambiguity in Problem-Solving cont'd 4. Name the most creative breakthrough your company has experienced during the past three months. What measurable outcome did it achieve? 5. How could our financial results improve if decisions in your company were well thought-out, timely, and communicated effectively throughout your organization? Some problems can't be avoided; but many problems can be avoided. Don't let ambiguity and uncertainty cloud your ability see opportunities.

  6. Strosaker, G. (2010, January 14). Developing a tolerance for ambiguity. Retrieved April 14, 2011, from http://gregstrosaker.com/2010/01/developing-a-tolerance-for-ambiguity/ Factors Impacting Tolerance for Ambiguity Some factors that may impact tolerance for ambiguity are: Nature and upbringing Education Early career experiences Self-confidence Optimism

  7. Strosaker, G. (2010, January 14). Developing a tolerance for ambiguity. Retrieved April 14, 2011, from http://gregstrosaker.com/2010/01/developing-a-tolerance-for-ambiguity/ Demonstrate Tolerance for Ambiguity Some examples that demonstrate tolerance for ambiguity are: • Marketers may have little tolerance and often resist moving towards metrics-driven processes • Engineers have high tolerance as more complex problems require making assumptions to deal with limited information • Accountants have little tolerance for ambiguity as their education and experiences are based in clear rules • Global leaders have greater tolerance for ambiguity and are more likely to effectively manage the stress imposed by uncertain environments and to be more adaptive and receptive to change

  8. http://www.mftrou.com/managing-ambiguity.html Methods Used to Develop a Tolerance for Ambiguity Teaching Tolerance for Ambiguity Build up your tolerance for ambiguity by remembering that even in the toughest situation, there are always two sound principles you can rely on. Principle 1 – you can always control your response to a situation. Your reaction is your choice. Principle 2 – recognizing what you can and can’t control will increase the likelihood of a successful outcome and lower your anxiety.

  9. Managing Ambiguity 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 or your response?

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