India Glossary of Life Skills

Tolerance of Ambiguity

Tolerance of Ambiguity is the ability to perceive ambiguous situations as desirable, accept some uncertainty while making decisions, and a tendency to avoid thinking in a rigid manner. It is the degree to which we are comfortable with uncertainty, unpredictability, conflicting directions, and multiple demands. It manifests itself in our ability to operate effectively in an uncertain environment.

Tolerance of Ambiguity is seen as an important criterion for development of flexible, integrative, and independent thinking. Also, a significant and positive relationship has been found between creativity and tolerance of ambiguity.

Tolerance of Ambiguity in Action The person will be able to:

  • Stay patient when being a part of an activity that they do not totally understand.
  • Participate in a setting which is composed of people that do not share similar values.
  • Enjoy working with people who have different values than themselves.
  • Enjoy traveling and adjusting to new and unfamiliar situations.
  • Manage their emotions in unpredictable and unfamiliar situations.

Related Measures

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Related Programs & Strategies

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Related Resources

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