Adapting to different ways of dealing with uncertainty The people you meet might respond to uncertainty differently than you. Consider seeing things from their point of view and adapting a little. Listen to this story of Nicole and Susan. Nicole likes routines and likes to plan in advance. Every Sunday she spends the afternoon and evening at her parents’ house. Every Monday she meets her best friend for lunch and every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings she goes to a café and reads. Having some control over what’s going to happen makes her feel safe. Then one day Nicole meets Susan. Susan never plans things in advance, is always late, and prefers to be flexible. She likes to make decisions based on how she’s feeling that day and feels that doing the same thing is limiting. Nicole tried to make plans to meet for coffee in advance, Susan sounds uninterested, but she never gives her definite answers. Her behavior really annoys Nicole. With people who don’t mind uncertainty … Remember that you can learn a lot from the unknown and the unfamiliar. Show flexibility. For example: For me, either way is fine. Let me know what you’re comfortable with. With people who avoid uncertainty … Offer details when making decisions. Provide a context with background information. For example: The reason I do it this way is… Let me explain why (I’m doing this). Show you understand the importance of structure and plans. I understand the (structure/flexibility) is important / means a lot to you. I can see why you (spend time on planning). Follow me for more Everyday English.