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 normBeing able to accept something or someone who is

different than what you consider normalRespecting 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 waysYour 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 ambiguityThe 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 anxietyeknazar.com

Managing Ambiguity in the Business World

• 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?

10 principles that provide a rule of thumb for managing ambiguity in the business environment:

jr.tfs.ca