Creating your own future

Anton Musgrave

One of the most identifiable trends in the world over the last 30 years has been a move towards greater personal freedom for individuals. This freedom brings with it greater responsibility and the need for more personal advice than ever before. In today’s world, change is the only constant. It is therefore important to understand these dynamics from a cultural, technological and work point of view so that you can make informed decisions about your career and life. An inflection point (a sudden change in direction) in the late 1960s marked the “era of the individual”. We have seen central structures disappearing, creating greater freedom for the individual. Of course, this means greater personal responsibility.

What is likely to happen?
Networks will replace structures. Your place in life will be determined by your networks – not by your place in the structure. Your position will not determine how people treat you. Rather how you manage relationships will be the determining factor of your authority. Previously, competency and specific skills were important but the future is about relationships and generic skills.

Technology – what has changed?
Technology has allowed the individual more freedom and productivity. For example, families used to have one landline. Now individuals have their own cell phones. This has caused a shift from place to person – we do not phone a place anymore, we phone an individual. Increasing mobility combined with stronger networks will mean that your skill in interacting with other people will become more important. Prepare yourself for this rapidly changing environment, and be prepared for life-long learning!

Business – what has changed?
People now worry about deflation instead of inflation. Today, the main problem is a surplus of resources. We are also seeing manufacturers charge the same price of increased quantities of goods. Cool drink manufacturers in the USA have increased packaged amounts yet their prices have remained the same. As a result, obesity is a national epidemic for the first time in many countries. Technology has allowed businesses to increase production using fewer resources. As we see machines replacing functions previously performed by humans, we will see less of a demand for people as a resource in specific industries.

What does this mean for you?
Innovation has replaced standardization. Children have always been taught to conform – not to stand out from the crowd. But individuals need to innovate because ideas fuel today’s economy. Now, more than ever, conformation will make you irrelevant! So we need to be creating opportunities for children to develop their creativity. In this highly networked environment, attitude has also replaced experience. Your attitude towards your environment and the people around you will “make or break” you – remember, the future is about relationships! Your ability to connect and network is vital.

What are the lessons for creating your future?

Understand the future – the world is changing so fast that the past is becoming increasingly irrelevant.
Never stop learning – we are moving into an age of lifetime learning.
Stay relevant to the economy – offer something that someone else values.
Understand why and how people differ.
Do not compete! Find where you can be unique.
Never be scared to challenge and question.
Ideas and the ability to make them happen are real success drivers.

This feature: Musgrave, A. (2004) Creating your own future. Child and Youth Care, 22, 9, p.15