The Next Big Idea UNCERTAINTY: The Surprising Power of Being Unsure
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Jun 6, 2024 
Author Maggie Jackson discusses the power of embracing uncertainty in leadership, relationships, and creativity. She explores how uncertainty can enhance persuasion and provide a leadership edge. The conversation highlights the benefits of uncertainty in personal growth, creativity, and adapting to new opportunities.
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Adaptive Expertise Beats Autopilot
- Years of experience can make experts rely on heuristics and reduce adaptability when facing novel problems.
- True expertise is adaptive: experts who dwell in uncertainty diagnose more and update their models before deciding.
Uncertainty Activates Wakefulness
- Uncertainty triggers wakefulness and approach-mode arousal, which opens cognitive resources rather than shutting them down.
- Fear shuts the brain down, but uncertainty invites exploration, creativity, and better decision-making.
Hedged Language Can Boost Persuasion
- Experts who express uncertainty are often seen as more persuasive because hedging signals openness and better judgment.
- Phrases like "maybe" and "I don't know" invite listening and shift conversations toward learning.