Bloomport U

It is clear.  Everything that matters is moving faster and the rate of acceleration shows no sign of slowing.  The expansion of interrelated networks and co-dependencies mean we are impacted by events that are many levels beyond our furthest scope of concern.  Change being the only constant, the reality we all have to get used to is VUCA.  In preparing for this VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity) future, the question I found myself asking was “how do I become a VUCA Master?”  After reading “Get There Early” by Bob Johansen and doing hours of internal and external research, I captured a couple characteristics that illustrate behaviors a VUCA Master might exhibit.

Volatility:

The VUCA master recognizes that in volatile times, it is important to articulate a clear purpose and vision as a way of maintaining a sense of calm.  Because the Master accepts volatility as a fact-of-life, the Master is continually scanning the horizon for the next big wave.  By anticipating this volatility, the Master is able to project a sea of calm when the turbulent times do arrive.

Uncertainty

When times are uncertain, people have an urge to act.  The VUCA master knows that in uncertain times, it is often best to listen first, and act second.  This forced pause helps the Master to avoid hasty action and allows the time to look beyond the first right answer.   Armed with insight, the Master is able to make bold moves from this position of power.

Complexity

Summarizers shine in VUCA world as these people have developed the ability to cut through noise and deliver a complete, concise message with clarity.  The VUCA masters do not get stuck in the details but are able to synthesize complexity to the core essentials that matter.  As we bump against information overload, watch these people digest and disseminate relevant information and discard the rest.

Ambiguity

Ambiguity gets the VUCA Master excited.  The Master sees ambiguity as an opportunity to step up and push the disruptive change that might have been bogged down during “normal” times.  While the rest of us are trying to find our way through organizational ambiguity, the Master is leveraging their informal networks to push the big ideas.  They see ambiguity as a way to shape the future and make the big win by asking the right questions and then leading the way.

I admit, a lot of this sounds consult-o-foofish, but if you recognize that most people are stunned by VUCA, you can see how the Master guided by strategic intent can use vision, diligence, focus and agility as a way to leap out front while everyone else is trying to figure which way is up.  The good news is that succeeding in a VUCA world comes down to mental preparedness.  This being the case, the next step is up to you.