“We have to think and act in a networked way”
How can we remain hopeful in times of crisis, and which megatrends will shape society? A futurologist provides answers.
Trend researcher Harry Gatterer is Managing Director of Zukunftsinstitut in Frankfurt am Main. We asked him three questions about the future.
In times of global crisis, a lot of people feel insecure and pessimistic. As a society, how can we maintain hope and optimism?
We need to understand the dynamics of change and draw on these insights to develop positive, realistic and inspiring visions of the future. We also have to be aware of the fact that we as individuals can be proactive in shaping the future.
How important is good international cooperation in times of crisis?
It’s absolutely vital. In Germany, for example, the shortage of skilled labour is something that we’re concerned about at many levels. But this is primarily a local issue – there isn’t a shortage of skilled labour globally. The more we think and act in a networked way, the easier it will be for us to overcome challenges.
The trend of friendshoring is becoming increasingly popular in the business world. This involves company processes being outsourced to countries which share common values. It’s an approach that minimises risks that arise from geopolitical tensions and trade conflicts, thereby helping to secure supply chains and strengthen close economic and diplomatic relationships. So it’s absolutely essential to promote stable, trusting international relations.
What are the trends that give us hope for the future as a society?}
The megatrend of connectivity: ultimately we will only make progress if we work together in communities. So this megatrend offers great potential for hope.
The megatrend of health: health is increasingly taking centre stage. One example of this is that more and more companies are looking to promote the “happiness approach” among their employees.
The megatrend of New Work: with the technical support we have, we’re improving the speed and excellence of everything we do. This will give us greater freedom and development potential.
The megatrend of globalisation: the issue of sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the corporate world. This trend reflects the fact that ecological sustainability is not just a moral obligation: it’s an economic and social necessity.
