The Hardest Part of Any Transition? The Waiting Game

We’ve all been there: that agonizing period when the future feels like a blank page, and all you can do is wait for answers. Waiting for a test result, waiting to hear if you’ve landed a job, or waiting for that spark of clarity about what’s next. It’s the in-between moments that test us the most—not knowing what lies ahead, overthinking every possible scenario, and feeling utterly stuck.

I vividly remember the days between my breast cancer diagnosis and receiving a treatment plan. That in-between time felt like an eternity. I’m someone who thrives on action, on solving problems and moving forward, but in those weeks, there was nothing I could do except wait. The mental gymnastics I went through—imagining every possible outcome, questioning every “what if”—were exhausting.

Eventually, the plan came, and with it, a sense of control. But it wasn’t the plan itself that eased my mind—it was the ability to take action again.

Why Uncertainty Feels So Hard

Uncertainty has a way of magnifying our fears. Studies show that our brains interpret ambiguity as a threat, triggering the same stress response as physical danger. When we’re stuck in limbo, our minds fill the gaps with worst-case scenarios, leaving us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and powerless.

But here’s the truth: the waiting game doesn’t have to leave you paralyzed. You can’t always control the timing of life’s answers, but you can control how you respond during the in-between.

Turning the Waiting Game Into a Winning Strategy

Here are some ideas for how to navigate those uncertain times with purpose, grace, and a sense of agency:

1. Focus on What You Can Control

When the big answers are out of your hands, shift your attention to smaller, tangible actions. Update your resume, schedule coffee catch-ups with your network, or explore new learning opportunities. Even small steps forward can bring a sense of momentum.

2. Create Structure in the Chaos

Uncertainty thrives in a vacuum. Fill your days with meaningful routines—exercise, journaling, or dedicating time to a passion project. Structure creates a sense of stability when everything else feels unsteady.

3. Talk to People Who’ve Been There

You’re not the first person to face this type of uncertainty, and you won’t be the last. Seek out conversations with mentors, friends, or peers who’ve navigated similar situations. Hearing their stories can remind you that the other side of uncertainty often holds growth and opportunity.

4. Challenge Your Thoughts

Our minds are experts at catastrophizing. The next time your brain serves up a worst-case scenario, ask yourself: Is this true? What evidence do I have for this fear? Often, just acknowledging the stories we’re telling ourselves can lessen their grip.

5. Take a Break from the Overthinking

Sometimes, the best thing you can do is step away from the mental churn. Go for a walk, spend time in nature, or lose yourself in a good book. Giving your brain a break often leads to clarity when you least expect it.

A Universal Truth About Uncertainty

If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this: clarity doesn’t come from sitting still and waiting for answers. It comes from action. When I was agonizing over my next career move, I kept waiting for the perfect opportunity to appear or for a magical sense of certainty to strike. But what finally moved the needle was taking small, purposeful steps—starting conversations, exploring new ideas, and giving myself permission to try.

Action, even imperfect action, is the antidote to fear.

A Few More Examples We’ve All Lived Through

• Waiting for the phone to ring after a big interview.
• Watching your inbox after submitting a huge proposal.
• Standing on the edge of a life decision—should I stay, or should I go?

These moments are universally human, and they remind us that uncertainty is not a sign of weakness—it’s a sign that we’re standing at the edge of possibility.

Your Next Move Is Yours to Make

You may not have all the answers right now, but you have everything you need to take the first step. The question is: what will you do with the in-between time? Will you let it paralyze you, or will you use it as an opportunity to grow, explore, and prepare for what’s next?

Remember: your future isn’t just something that happens to you—it’s something you create.

Start with Balance Your Brave

To support your leadership, I’ve created a simple diagnostic tool called Balance Your Brave. It’s a quick health check for leaders, designed to help you take stock of key areas in your life and identify where you need to focus.

Use it to uncover what’s pulling your energy, where you’re thriving, and where you need a little extra care.

The best part? You can revisit it throughout the year—three times, like a balance sheet—to stay on track.

Download Balance Your Brave here

Because the best version of you doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when you decide to make it a priority.

Sources: https://hbr.org/2020/09/what-to-do-when-your-mind-always-dwells-on-the-worst-case-scenario