From personal decisions to big global changes, uncertainty is part of life. In our organizations, it might mean wondering if now is the right time to hire new staff or questioning whether our services are meeting the changing needs of our community. On a broader scale, we may wonder how our work should evolve when peer organizations shift—should we generalize or focus on a specific gap? Then there’s the global picture: elections, policies, and global trends that impact public sentiment, the funding landscape, and even the way it feels to do meaningful work.
When faced with uncertainty, it’s easy to freeze. It’s tempting to wait until things become clearer before making a move. The truth is we don’t always have that luxury. So, how do we make plans when everything feels up in the air? Here are some strategies to help guide your decision-making:
Reconnect With What’s Solid
When everything around you is shifting, go back to your roots. What is the mission of your organization? What core values do you hold? What kind of impact are you here to make? No matter what changes around you, these foundational elements can act as your compass. If your decisions are grounded in these truths, you are more likely to stay on track, even if the road ahead is unpredictable.
Imagine Different Scenarios
While we can’t predict the future, we can prepare for multiple possibilities. What if a major funding source disappears? What if our community's needs change? What if policies shift in ways that affect your work? By brainstorming different scenarios, you can develop a more flexible approach to planning. Thinking ahead gives you the power to respond rather than react.
Think "If This, Then That"
Once you’ve outlined different scenarios, take it a step further—map out what you would do in each case. If this happens, what will we do? If funding gets cut, what’s the backup plan? If demand for your services grows, how will you scale? Having these “if this, then that” pathways in place means you won’t be caught off guard. You don’t have to have all the answers, but knowing your options can make all the difference.
Get Ready for Your "Then Thats"
It’s one thing to have a plan, it’s another to be prepared to act on it. Take a look at the resources, relationships, and capacities you will need to make those plans feasible. Do you need to strengthen community partnerships? Build financial reserves? Train your team in new skills? Investing in these areas now will make it easier to pivot when the time comes.
Work Together
None of us have to navigate uncertainty alone. Connection and collaboration makes us more resilient. Partnering with other organizations, sharing resources, and staying connected to peer networks can make all the difference. When we support each other, we build a stronger and more adaptable social purpose sector.
Keep Moving Forward
Uncertainty is a given, getting stuck doesn’t have to be. By staying true to your mission, preparing for different possibilities, mapping out responses, strengthening your resources, and leaning on community, you can navigate whatever comes your way. Planning in uncertain times isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about staying flexible, informed, and connected so you can keep moving forward with confidence.