Inventing The Future
What kind of future do you want to create?
Never before in the history of man have there been so many opportunities and challenges to adapt to. Change is happening faster and faster and the world is growing smaller and smaller as telecommunication technology and the global economy start to integrate. It appears that no corner of the world is being left untouched by our accelerating globalization.
What kind of future do you want to create?
Looking into the future can be like exploring the dense woods of Zena along the shores of Grand Lake at night. A combination of unforeseen threats and opportunities confront us as we take each tentative step into the great unknown. Without a map, compass or guiding light the chances are that, before too long, even the most seasoned explorer can end up lost, stumbling blindly in the dark far from the intended path. Being able to identify your map and plan for the future takes effort and determination. Things that have been rewarded in the past may not be rewarded in the future. In an attempt to support you in adapting to our ever-changing world, here are some critical tools that enable me to discover, imagine and initiate the future I want to create. Simply put a method that allows people to be part of inventing the future.
Openness to Change. It has been said that nothing is sure but change and taxes. Our ability to embrace change can make a major difference in how we evolve our careers, families, personal lives and community. Change is also a sneak peak into the future, and for those who can stay calm and centered during times of change, will see through the chaos and new opportunities will become visible.
Foresight into the Future. Today there are more tools and organizations sharing their knowledge on the future than ever before. With these tools you can learn what trends are altering society, economics, the environment, business and the cultural landscape. The ability to see ahead can make the difference between excelling in the future or being left behind.
Insight into New Opportunities. Many people refer to those with insight as lucky because they always seem to be in the right place at the right time. In all reality, these people have an ability to see future needs and then meet those needs with new products and/or services.
Flexible Strategy & Execution. James Ogilvy refers to this as Goalessness. This is the ability to adapt to the changing world by embracing new opportunities that enhance your goals and objectives. Very rarely is there a straight path to any desired outcome. Take off the blinders and begin to take in the world with new eyes.
As global issues, world cultures, integrated economies and technologies continue to change so does our need to think differently. What is holding you back from adapting to our changing world? With fundamental changes happening in every facet of our lives and extending out into the world in which we live, it is becoming more and more critical to alter the way we think about our world.
Looking forward to tomorrow and our next adventure, I encourage you to take the time to think about the kind of future you want to create and then go for it. You can do anything you want with a little effort and persistence. Thinking globally and acting locally has become imperative for the future.
Author Bio: Sean Griffin is a Business Thought Partner, Graphic Facilitator, Strategic Planner, Business Development Leader and Creativity Columnist. You can learn more about Sean at www.seangriffin.com or www.whatbox.info, or you can reach him at skg@seangriffin.com or by phone at 918.787.5769.