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Ambiguity pops up when it is least expected or wanted. The first step is to recognize ambiguity: you are confused, or unclear, or unable to see patterns in the events that you face. And thus, you are torn by indecision. Not to mention fear, uncertainty, and doubt.

Here are three things to try:

• Have an open mind. Be receptive to a different perspective. You don’t have to agree, but don’t dismiss the new idea just because it is different.
• Be ready to take a stand and have an opinion. Frame your stand or opinion as a hypothesis. To avoid being locked into a losing argument, see above point.
• Research, read, and ask around. Don’t reinvent the wheel. Don’t adopt “best practices” without customization.

Passiveness is not an option. Strategic withdrawal is to be used only to buy yourself time to think.

Here is a bonus tip:

• Establish a sound process or method to solve your problem. Do not confuse random acts with creative thinking. Serendipity is more likely to happen when you are open to possibilities.