The best parents and leaders use a 3-step formula to help people handle uncertainty, says Dr. Becky Kennedy

TL;DR

Prime Big Deal Days · Oct 6–7Offer from Amazon

Get health and wellness essentials delivered free — and shop member deals

• Fast, free delivery on millions of items
• Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
• Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included

Start your free Prime trial →Free trial for eligible customers · Cancel anytime

As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.Hide

Dr. Becky Kennedy introduces a straightforward 3-step formula to help parents and leaders ease anxiety around uncertainty. The approach involves acknowledging knowns and unknowns to foster reassurance.

Dr. Becky Kennedy, a clinical psychologist and founder of Good Inside, has promoted a simple three-step formula to help both parents and leaders manage uncertainty and reduce anxiety in others. She presented this approach during a talk at the Charter’s New Employer Brand Summit in New York City on June 9.

Kennedy’s method involves starting with what is known, acknowledging what remains uncertain, and then reaffirming what is known again. This approach aims to normalize uncertainty, making it less intimidating by openly discussing what is and isn’t known.

She explained that uncertainty often causes discomfort because of the unknown elements, not the lack of control itself. By candidly addressing these unknowns, leaders and parents can foster a sense of trust and calmness. For example, a parent explaining a child’s chances of making a soccer team might say, “Here’s what I know: you’ve been practicing and want to try out. Here’s what I don’t know: whether you’ll make it. And here’s what I do know: no matter what, we’ll get through it together.”

Similarly, a manager might say, “Here’s what I know: there might be restructuring. Here’s what I don’t know: the exact timing or details. Here’s what I do know: if it happens, you’ll be informed, and I will support you.” Kennedy compared this to a pilot addressing turbulence, emphasizing that transparency reduces anxiety even when full information isn’t available.

Why This Approach Matters in Parenting and Leadership

This strategy provides a practical tool for reducing anxiety caused by uncertainty, which is relevant in both personal and professional settings. By openly communicating what is known and unknown, leaders and parents can foster trust, reduce fear, and improve resilience among children and team members. This approach is especially timely given the increased unpredictability in many areas of life and work.

Implementing this simple three-step formula can lead to more transparent communication, better emotional regulation, and stronger relationships, making it a valuable skill for managing change effectively.

Background on Handling Uncertainty in Communication

In recent years, experts have emphasized the importance of transparency and honesty in managing anxiety related to uncertainty. Dr. Becky Kennedy’s approach builds on existing psychological principles that highlight the benefits of acknowledging what we don’t know to foster trust and calmness. Her method has gained attention at leadership and parenting summits, reflecting a broader recognition of the need for effective communication strategies during times of change or unpredictability.

The approach aligns with broader trends toward emotional intelligence and vulnerability as tools for effective leadership and parenting, especially in uncertain times.

“Everything changes just because they were willing to speak to it.”

— Dr. Becky Kennedy

What Aspects of the 3-Step Formula Are Still Unclear

While the effectiveness of the 3-step approach has been supported anecdotally and through expert endorsement, there is limited empirical research specifically validating its impact across diverse populations. It is also not yet clear how well this method works in high-stakes or highly emotional situations, or how it can be adapted for cultural differences. Further studies are needed to assess its long-term effectiveness and applicability in various contexts.

Next Steps for Adoption and Research

Experts suggest that training programs for parents and leaders could incorporate this three-step formula to evaluate its practical benefits. Organizations and parenting groups may begin testing and refining the approach in different settings. Researchers are likely to investigate its efficacy through studies measuring anxiety reduction and trust-building over time. Additionally, more guidance on adapting the method for specific cultural or situational needs could emerge.

Key Questions

Can this 3-step formula be used in high-stress situations?

While the approach is designed to foster calmness by addressing uncertainty openly, its effectiveness in high-stress or emotionally charged situations requires further study. Experts believe it can be a helpful starting point but may need to be combined with additional strategies.

Is this method suitable for children or only adults?

Dr. Kennedy’s examples include both parenting and workplace contexts, suggesting it can be adapted for children as well as adults. Communicating clearly about what is known and unknown can help children feel more secure.

Are there any cultural considerations when using this approach?

It is not yet clear how cultural differences impact the reception of this method. Some cultures may prefer more direct or indirect communication styles, and further research could clarify how to tailor the approach accordingly.

Has this approach been scientifically tested?

As of now, the approach is based on expert opinion and psychological principles rather than extensive empirical validation. Further research is planned to evaluate its effectiveness systematically.

How can leaders implement this in daily communication?

Leaders can incorporate the three-step formula into meetings, emails, and one-on-one conversations by clearly stating what is known, acknowledging uncertainties, and reaffirming support and commitment.

Source: CNBC