# Positive Uncertainty versus Negative Certainty By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2023-05-10 There is an interesting phenomenon related to how people frame their understandings. In many cases, people will assert a positive uncertainty rather than declare a negative certainty. This might simply be polite, but it poses interesting implications for those in organizations. As an example, a person might make a statement, “I don’t know that I will like this,” instead of making the statement, “I know I won’t like this.” It seems that humans in interaction with each other like to hedge and keep things positive. Again, there is an element of politeness associated with this. But there is a limit to the benefit derived from such considerations. In organizations, there can be consequences associated with a lack of clarity. In fact, ambiguity could result in a misallocation of resources as people do research and analysis to gain a better understanding of the seemingly uncertain situation. Efficiency is gained through clear communication. As we interact with each other professionally it would be beneficial to know and understand each other. This is part of authenticity. Without it we are each left to wonder what each other means by what we say. Reducing that uncertainty is a positive. #### Related Items [[Communication]] [[Analytics]] [[Work]] [[Authenticity]] [[Organization]]