Navigating Uncertainty
Understanding the Kübler-Ross Change Curve in Times of Federal Policy Shifts
When change arrives abruptly—whether through policy shifts, new tariffs, or major structural changes in government—stress can become an invisible undercurrent in our personal and professional lives. The Kübler-Ross Change Curve offers a framework for understanding these emotional and psychological responses, helping individuals make sense of their experiences and move forward constructively.
1. Shock & Denial
Many people respond to major changes with disbelief or numbness at the outset. This is a survival response—the mind’s way of buying time to process unfamiliar or overwhelming information.
Support Strategies:
For yourself, Allow time to digest the news before reacting. Avoid rushing to conclusions or taking immediate action. And most of all, check the facts.
For others: Offer space and patience. Don’t push people to "snap out of it." Provide clear, factual information to reduce confusion.
2. Anger & Frustration
As denial wears off, emotions rise to the surface. Frustration about lost stability, mistrust of decision-makers, or fear of future consequences is common.
Support Strategies:
For yourself: Channel anger into advocacy, journaling, or physical activity. Recognize that this is a normal part of processing change.
For others, Listen without trying to fix them. Acknowledge the validity of their feelings, even if you don’t agree with them.
3. Bargaining
In this phase, people seek control. They may try to negotiate, find workarounds, or imagine “what-if” scenarios that might soften the impact.
Support Strategies:
For yourself: Use this energy to gather information and explore your options realistically.
For others: Help brainstorm solutions, but encourage realistic thinking. Offer guidance to navigate changing systems or policies.
4. Depression
When it becomes clear that change is inevitable and not entirely controllable, many people experience sadness, fatigue, or a sense of helplessness.
Support Strategies:
For yourself, Don’t isolate yourself. Talk to a friend, counselor, or community group. Take care of basic needs like rest, nutrition, and routine.
For others: Check in regularly. Remind them they are not alone, and validate their experience without rushing them to "feel better."
5. Experimentation
This is a critical turning point. People begin trying out new ways to work, live, or plan—testing what might be possible in the new environment.
Support Strategies:
For yourself: Stay open-minded. Allow yourself to make small mistakes as you try new approaches.
For others: Celebrate small efforts and progress. Share resources or success stories to inspire confidence.
6. Decisions
With increased clarity, people start making intentional choices. They begin to reshape their strategies, habits, and expectations based on the evolving context.
Support Strategies:
For yourself: Reflect on what you’ve learned. Set short-term goals aligned with the new reality.
For others: Encourage reflection and planning. Help them weigh the pros and cons thoughtfully before committing to big moves.
7. Acceptance & Integration
Eventually, individuals and communities learn to live within the new circumstances. They regain a sense of control and often discover unexpected resilience or growth.
Support Strategies:
For yourself: Reconnect with purpose. Find ways to contribute or engage meaningfully within your new framework.
For others, Recognize and praise their progress. This will reinforce a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
A Note of Caution: The Risk of Premature Closure
While movement through these stages can be empowering, it’s important to be cautious. There’s a real risk in rushing toward Decisions or Acceptance & Integration before we’ve had time to fully understand the long-term implications of major strategic policy shifts or tariff impacts. Premature adaptation can lead to poor choices, missed opportunities, or a false sense of security.
Wise resilience involves informed action, not just quick resolution. As more information unfolds, it's okay and often necessary to pause, reassess, and stay adaptable.
By using this model with compassion and critical awareness, we can navigate uncertainty better together, supporting not only ourselves but also the communities and systems we depend on.
Be gentle to yourself and kind to each other. It will take a village to emerge intact from this mess.
Remember, I, along with many other coaches and therapists, am here for you. Even I am seeking a sounding board during these trying times.
Warm regards and hugs,
Mary