Embracing Uncertainty

Most people hate and fear uncertainty. It causes such stress and anxiety that we often choose certain surrender over doubt, becoming passive, dependent, addicted—and more anxious than ever. Doubling down on the certainties promised by technology and micro-management only makes things worse, leaving no opportunity for innovation, adaptation or invention.

Artists live with uncertainty constantly—but instead of waiting for the future, they run towards making it, with agency and freedom. What can we learn from them, about facing into a future that grows more uncertain daily?

At a time when organizations of all kinds crave innovation but complain their people lack creativity and initiative, the arts have never been so essential to our future. We may not all be artists, but we can learn to think like them.

Margaret Heffernan makes a compelling argument for the vital integration of art into all aspects of our lives and for artists to guide us with their stamina, freedom and endurance.

“At a time when algorithms promise to extinguish all doubt, Heffernan makes a compelling case for uncertainty as humanity's greatest resource. Her deep examination of how artists work offers an inspired and inspiring model for thriving in an unpredictable world.” Daniel H. Pink, author of The Power of Regret, Drive and Whole New Mind

"A fascinating and thought-provoking read. Margaret Heffernan makes it very clear that, confronted by uncertainty, we need to think like artists. Embracing Uncertainty is current, unique in its approach, solid and necessary.” Penny Hay, Bath Spa University

“A call to creativity, written as a response to the deadening effects of tech-enabled managerialism. This long-overdue book invites readers of whatever stripe to learn from the way artists work, to see uncertainty for what it is: ‘the great propulsive power behind curiosity, learning, discovery and invention – the essence of being human’.” Tracey Camilleri, co-author of The Social Brain

“A timely, insightful book about staying creative in a changing world. Using her extensive experience and impressive knowledge, Margaret Heffernan highlights what it takes to excel in turbulent times.” Adam Grant, author of Think Again and Hidden Potential, and host of the podcast Re:Thinking

"There is no more compelling, convincing and articulate guide to what the arts have to teach us about uncertainty than Margaret Heffernan. " Robert Poynton, author of Do Improvise

"Margaret Heffernan's beautifully expressed insight that the essential quality of artistry is a strength we all need and can develop in ourselves is hugely welcome. A life-enhancing book.” Lucy Parker, co-author of The Activist Leader and Senior Partner at Brunswick Group

Prologue: the cost of certainty

- Paraorchestra

1. Deep hanging out

- Piers Plowright

2. Into the forest

- Gabriella A. Moses

3. Call and response

- RADA

4. Prepared minds

- Christine Vachon

5. Kill all the poets: art and politics

- RAFTS

Epilogue: the benefits of uncertainty