A number of my coachees this week have been reeling in the wake of the shocking cessation order of funding and permissions from the new US President. In life and running an organisation, change is inevitable. However, some changes, like this one, can feel like being thrown into uncharted waters with no compass.

A sudden interruption of funding, political instability, socio-economic shifts, or climate-related challenges can shake the very foundation of our work and aspirations. While these disruptions can be daunting, they also present opportunities for growth, resilience, and transformation. Right now it might not feel like it, but they really do!
If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or changemaker facing turbulent times, here’s how to navigate these uncertainties with clarity and confidence:
1. Embrace a Mindset of Adaptability
Uncertainty is often uncomfortable, but rigid thinking makes it even more challenging. Instead of resisting change, embrace adaptability as a core competency. Develop a mindset that sees challenges as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. This shift in perspective can make all the difference in how you respond to unexpected disruptions.
2. Assess and Prioritise
When faced with a sudden crisis, take a step back to assess the situation objectively. Identify the key factors at play and prioritise your response. Ask yourself:
What are the immediate threats, and what can be mitigated?
What resources are still available, and how can they be leveraged?
Who can provide support, guidance, or partnership in this time?
Creating a clear plan, even if it needs to be adjusted later, can help regain a sense of control.
3. Strengthen Your Support Network
Navigating uncertainty alone can be overwhelming. Build and lean into your network—mentors, colleagues, industry experts, community allies and ofcourse me, your coach. Collaboration can open new opportunities and insights that may not have been visible before. Engage in conversations with people who have successfully navigated similar challenges to learn from their experiences.
4. Diversify Your Strategy
If one funding stream, market, or approach is disrupted, having alternative strategies can make all the difference. Consider diversifying:
Funding sources (grants, partnerships, new investors)
Markets (expanding to new regions or digital platforms)
Business models (introducing new services or adapting existing ones)
A diversified strategy helps create resilience, making your work less vulnerable to single-point failures.
5. Stay Informed but Avoid Overwhelm
Understanding the broader context of change—whether economic trends, political shifts, or climate-related risks—can help you make informed decisions. However, too much information can also lead to paralysis. You are not going to learn much from Presidential Press Conferences, so set boundaries on your news consumption and focus on actionable insights rather than doomscrolling.
6. Innovate and Reimagine Possibilities
Challenges often force us to rethink the status quo. Instead of merely surviving, ask yourself: How can this situation spark innovation? Many groundbreaking ideas and businesses have emerged during crises. Think creatively about how you can pivot, repurpose your skills, or serve a new need in the changing landscape.
7. Prioritise Well-being and Resilience
In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to neglect personal well-being. Yet, resilience isn’t just about strategy—it’s also about sustainability. Make time for rest, self-care, and mental clarity. Your ability to lead effectively depends on your own emotional and physical strength.
8. Take Decisive but Measured Action
Avoid the trap of analysis paralysis. While it’s important to think critically, action is key to momentum. Even small, incremental steps toward a solution can create positive shifts. Trust your ability to adapt and refine as you go.
Final Thoughts
Uncharted waters may feel intimidating, but they are also where growth happens. By cultivating adaptability, leveraging support networks, staying informed, and embracing innovation, you can turn obstacles into opportunities. The most successful leaders and changemakers are not those who avoid challenges, but those who navigate them with resilience, wisdom, and a willingness to evolve.
All this said, I know that the sudden block on funding is a shock and deeply unnerving. Remember that I am here for you.
Otherwise, what steps will you take today to navigate your own uncharted waters? Let’s start the conversation!
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