Change is difficult because of the uncertainty it creates. Andy Stanley once said, “Uncertainty is a permanent part of the leadership landscape. It never goes away…There will be very few occasions when you are absolutely certain about anything. You will consistently be called upon to make decisions with limited information. That being the case, your goal should not be to eliminate uncertainty. Instead…you must develop the art of being clear in the face of uncertainty.” 

Great leaders do not try to eliminate uncertainty. Any attempt is futile as there will always be unknowns when it comes to the future and circumstances outside our control. In fact, those who state with certainty what is going to happen lose credibility. Therefore, great leaders are clear about what they do know and clear about what they don't know. Disclosing both reveals a leader's honesty and humility. We would much rather follow those who humbly approach complex situations with variable outcomes than those who arrogantly steam forward toward potential catastrophe in blissful ignorance. 

Practically speaking, in the face of uncertainty, your goal should be to help people know what to expect, including variable outcomes. Assure them with hope without painting only a positive picture; be realistic to the best of your knowledge. In Matthew 16:21, 20:17-19, and 26:1-2, Jesus prepared His disciples for the crucifixion when he would be taken away from them. Even though it upset their world, he minimized the fallout of that change by discussing the details numerous times and giving them hope that all would turn out for their best.

Clarity is kindness and clarity should always trump certainty, so be clear about what you do know and clear about what you don’t know.