Not knowing is harder than bad news.
A 2016 study (de Berker et al.) found that people's stress peaked when outcomes were most uncertain. Not when they were worst.
Endless scenarios
The Brain Keeps Simulating
- Rehearsing every possible outcome
- A constant drain on attention
- Focus goes to worry, not work
Threat mode
Alert, Not Creative
- Narrower thinking
- Less risk-taking
- More rumour-seeking
Paralysis
Why Start If It Might Change?
- Decisions deferred
- Investment stops
- Good people explore exits
Source: Nature Communications ↗
Share what you know, what you don't, and when you will.