Many of us do not take the time to stop and reflect but I find it very useful and kind of a cleansing process!
The year of 2016, I think, will be a very famous one for many reasons. Here are some headlines that affected and stand out for me on a personal level:
- The Brexit
- Donald Trump as President-elect
- Prince and David Bowie passed away
- The Rio Olympics
- The rise of disruptive technology
Looking at these events you can see where my interests lie: Politics, Music, Sport and Technology, but all these events stand out for me as really interesting as to what impacts you as an individual.
Politics.
The Brexit and “The Don” being elected I think is the start of the 1st world countries using their democratic rights to tell the world that democracy is still powerful.
The world as we know it is enduring change at an unprecedented rate: Technology, Globalisation, Uncertainty are all happening but the voting demographics of the US election and the Brexit indicate that the populous may not be as ready as anticipated and maybe want to concentrate on things closer to home such as basic needs (Health, Education).
It seems as though Maslow still has a place in our society and politicians may not be as connected to the people as they think they are!
2017 is going to be an interesting year!
Music.
It resonates with everyone – whatever type of music you listen to; it evokes emotion. It has the power to hit the memory and transport you back in time when you heard that song. Two major influences in my life passed away in 2016 and it made me think about my earlier years and that life is short.
Sport.
Another powerful entity that inspires, motivates and brings out strong emotions. For me Usain Bolt winning the 100M and 200M at the Rio Olympics was simply awesome – his attitude, charisma and sheer athleticism is truly inspirational and will stick out as a highlight of the year for me.
Technology.
Wow! – the rise of Uber, Air B’n’B, Fintech… traditional methods are changing, and changing fast. It is exciting but we have to keep up!
Having been involved in a new technology through my working life this year and having numerous conversations around using tech to help business change Performance Reviews and Employee Engagement, it is clear that we have to embrace the rate at which technology is changing and will change our lives, both at work and at home.
Those of you who fear technology or don’t embrace it will simply get left behind. I can only imagine what the next 10 years will bring.
2017 is going to be an exciting year!
Whilst this is a personal reflection, if nothing else, I hope this blog makes you stop and think, even for a minute.
Every single one of us is busy but we are not too busy to take the time to reflect, spend some time with family and re-charge the batteries so we can embrace what 2017 holds.
2017 is going to be what you make it!
Stephen Cushion – General Manager; Consulting