Stress Management – VUCA

Abstract

VUCA describes a world that has Volatility – recreated rate of change, Uncertainty – an unclear future, Complexity - decisions have multiple factors and Ambiguity – lack of clarity about meaning. This situation was prevailing in the world before COVID-19 pandemic which could be described broadly in terms of the present, Near and Far change. In the similar fashion COVID-19 pandemic post period can be described as Now, in the short term what the world needs to look is – Pre-vaccine - to achieve our vision, Near, medium term focus on the immediate impact of a vaccine and on what will it mean to us? and finally the Far change which is a long term phenomenon include describing optimistically the future post vaccine, stress responses to change and if change is perceived negatively the way we fight, the threat or flight run away from the threat freeze, not be able to respond to the threat flood, be overcome by emotion and by threat, fawn –submit to the threat and the fatigue which is the feel exhausted by the threat. So, the result could either be endings or beginnings. The endings are ambers, anxiety, shock, confusion, anger, fear, frustration and/or cynicism. Then we will find the neutral zone – i.e., preparation soon, valley of despair. Whereas the new beginnings are enthusiasm, trust, excitement, relief, hope / scepticism, acceptance, and curiosity. It can thus be summarized that leading change in VUCA world is not easy and developing a vision of Now, Near & Future may be helpful. Understanding the role of erection in change is very essential and mindset and mood contagion of the leader are also equally important. Developing leadership agility helps in leading change. This paper explains the benefits of VUCA implantation for future growth and prosperity