Alan Kay, the educator and computer designer, famously declared, “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” But what does it take to invent the future in such a turbulent and uncertain world? How do successful organizations build on their history, even as they craft a new point of view about what comes next? How do established brands stay true to their original promise, while also making themselves relevant to new customers with different values and preferences? How can accomplished executives be sure that all they know — their hard-earned wisdom and expertise — doesn’t limit what they can imagine?
The 4 Kinds of Leaders Who Create the Future
There’s more than one way to future-proof your career.
December 18, 2017
Summary.
Alan Kay, the educator and computer designer, famously declared, “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” But what does it take to invent the future in such a turbulent and uncertain world? Arguably, there are four types of leaders who are truly “fit for the future.” First, there are the insatiable learners, who constantly ask themselves, “Am I learning as fast as the world is changing?” Second, you have the personal disruptors, who know when it’s time to completely reinvent themselves. Third, there are tough-minded optimists, who know how to forge ahead through sheer grit and perseverance. And finally, you’ve got eager experimenters, who keep trying things until they find a solution that works.
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New!
HBR Learning
Leading People Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Leading People. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
What you need to know about being in charge.