As I work with more Japanese companies and leaders, one thing really bothers me, and I keep asking myself, "Are these people/companies, or is this country ready for the future?"
I sense the answer is "no."
Many discussions and concerns are irrelevant for the future.
Last night I created a new GPT called Tom on OpenAI's ChatGPT.
I kep creating different expert GPTs on various topics so that I can have deeper insights.
I asked Tom what "future readiness" could mean.
This was his answer:
"Future readiness" is a term that encompasses the preparedness of an individual, organization, or country to adapt, thrive, and remain resilient in the face of future challenges and opportunities. This concept involves several key dimensions:
1. Adaptability and Flexibility: The ability to quickly and effectively respond to changes in the environment, technology, economy, or society. It involves being open to new ideas and approaches, and being able to pivot strategies as circumstances evolve.
2. Technological Proficiency: Staying abreast of and effectively utilizing emerging technologies. For organizations and countries, this means not only adopting new technologies but also fostering an environment conducive to technological innovation.
3. Strategic Foresight and Planning: The practice of looking ahead to anticipate potential future scenarios and developing strategies to navigate them successfully. This includes horizon scanning, trend analysis, and scenario planning.
4. Resilience: The capacity to withstand and recover from shocks, whether they are economic downturns, natural disasters, or other crises. It's about having robust systems and contingency plans in place.
5. Sustainable Practices: Embracing sustainability in operations and planning to ensure long-term viability. This pertains not just to environmental sustainability, but also to social and economic sustainability.
6. Learning and Development: Continuous learning and skill development to stay relevant and competitive. For individuals, this means lifelong learning. For organizations and nations, it involves investing in education and training systems.
7. Collaboration and Networking: Building strong networks and collaborations across industries, sectors, and borders to leverage collective wisdom, resources, and capabilities.
8. Cultural and Social Awareness: Understanding and appreciating global and local cultural and social dynamics, which is crucial for operating effectively in a diverse and interconnected world.
Future readiness isn't just about predicting the future; it's about being prepared to handle various futures. It's a dynamic process, requiring ongoing assessment and adaptation. For individuals, it involves personal development and adaptability; for organizations, strategic and operational agility; and for nations, policies and systems that foster resilience and sustainable growth.
My perspective on the last paragraph is slightly different.
Yes, "it's about being prepared to handle various futures," but it is also about creating or co-creating futures that work for various stakeholders.
The future is not a pre-determined existence. It is not a bus stop we will eventually arrive.
It is something that can be changed as it is the result of many interactions.
Many of my clients are unaware of the opportunities they have.