The one certainty about such uncertainty is that it tends to be bad for the economy. Businesses are more wary of investing, expanding and hiring. Consumers are less eager to spend their savings.

5. Seek expert guidance. Assemble a cabinet of trusted advisors who understand your challenges and share realistic solutions. Be sure your business banker is part of your team.

As experts and business leaders say the lack of clarity around the tariffs is every bit as challenging as the levies themselves, data shows economic uncertainty is the highest it has been in years.