Adopt and Embrace 2014

I apparently am classified as an early adopter. I didn’t invent the LED lightbulb, but my house is full of them (and has been for some time now). My alarm system and thermostat are remotely controlled by my smartphone. I can start my car from the warmth and comfort of my office.

I read today that we should put our business on a one year sabbatical to fully reflect and understand it. We all know that isn’t practical, but to be effective leaders we need to take time away from the daily activities to step back and ask ‘What if?’ Some of that conversation will be whimsical and nonsensical. Some will be serious and scary. The important part is to ask the question and really listen to the answers.

What did you think of the first time you heard about the cell phone? Only for the filthy rich, right? Then there was the bag phone and for $2000 you could play. Next came the $1000 brick phone. And how cool was the first flip phone? Fast forward—what did you think the first time you heard about Amazon using drones to deliver packages? The Jetsons? Well, the FAA has given approval to start testing the technology.

So here at the end of 2013 we have a chance to look forward and dream of what could be. The possibilities are endless. In broken English, a very smart man once told me “If you want to make your dreams come true, first you have to wake up.” So may we all wake up in 2014 and make our dreams come true.