236: Navigating Uncertainty in Leadership with Maggie Jackson

Are you ready to harness the power of uncertainty for success?In this captivating episode of the Happier at Work podcast, I had a thought-provoking conversation with Maggie Jackson, an accomplished journalist and author. Maggie delves into her exploration of uncertainty, offering a compelling perspective on how embracing the unknown can lead to growth and innovation both in the workplace and beyond. With her insights, she challenges conventional wisdom and highlights the dynamic advantages of uncertainty as a driver for cognitive improvement, strategic flexibility, and progressive leadership.Maggie distinguishes between different types of uncertainty and explains how leaders and teams can leverage this often misunderstood concept to enhance decision-making, communication, and adaptability. She provides both theoretical insights and practical examples, revealing that uncertainty, when wielded effectively, fosters a collaborative environment that is ripe for creativity and productivity.The main points include:Understanding the two main types of uncertainty: aleatory (external) and epistemic (internal).How uncertainty, dubbed "wisdom in motion," can enhance focus and receptiveness.Embracing uncertainty for strategic advantage in high-stakes situations.Encouraging a questioning mindset within teams to drive innovation.Improving tolerance for uncertainty through simple, everyday exercises.Leadership strategies for leveraging uncertainty productively.Highlighting the significance of individual differences in tolerance for uncertainty.Do you have any feedback or thoughts on this discussion? If so, please connect with Aoife via the links below and let her know. Aoife would love to hear from you!Connect with MaggieWebsiteLinkedInMaggie’s BookConnect with Happier at Work host Aoife O’Brien:WebsiteLinkedIn YouTubePrevious Episodes:Episode 228: Fostering Genuine Curiosity and Building Trust at Work with Julie Pham

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Happier at Work® is the go-to podcast for client-facing leaders who want to create thriving workplaces where people and businesses succeed. Hosted by career and workplace culture strategist Aoife O’Brien, each episode explores the psychology of work, tackling the biggest challenges and opportunities shaping today’s workplace—from leadership and career growth to workplace culture, imposter syndrome, and employee engagement. Blending expert insights, psychological research, real-world stories, and actionable strategies, Happier at Work® helps you build a career and workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired. Guests include leading psychologists, bestselling authors, and professionals like you who are putting these ideas into practice. Whether you’re a leader looking to create a high-performing team or an ambitious professional navigating career growth, this podcast gives you the tools to drive real change. 🎧 Subscribe now and join the movement!