Future-Casting: Shaping What’s Next

Many years ago, I heard someone say that ‘big pictures are painted with small brushstrokes.’ That really stuck with me because I find it to be true in both life and business.

Every decision you make affects the trajectory and momentum of your company, your life, and the lives of those in your orbit.

I recently shared my vision and concerns about future-proofing your business.

If you’ve ever wondered what’s next for your business, whether it’s expansion, new markets, or positioning for your exit, that’s the essence of the important conversation I’m creating.

The What's Next Roundtable™: An Interactive Conversation for Women Experts Who Wonder What’s Next for Their Business

If you’d like to attend the Roundtable on November 2, 2023, please read on…

In the business world, ‘forecasting’ has been a reliable guide for decision-making. We analyze data, study trends, and make calculated predictions about the future.

But what if we shifted our perspective and embraced a more proactive approach - one that involves painting a vivid picture of the future we want to create for our businesses, clients, and industries? What if we rallied our teams to work together toward that vision?

Enter the concept of ‘future-casting.’

While typical forecasting is undoubtedly valuable, it relies on historical data and trends. It tends to be reactive, limiting us to predictions based on past patterns.

In contrast, future-casting is about proactively shaping the future by envisioning the outcomes we desire and working diligently to bring them to life.

Today’s Question:

How can you harness the power of visualization to future-cast for your business?

Visualization is a potent tool in future-casting. Close your eyes and envision where you’d like your business to be in one year, then three years. Use your imagination and dream big. Imagine your achievements, the impact on clients, and the innovations you’ve conceived.

When you can vividly describe your vision and involve your team, this practice clarifies the path forward and ignites enthusiasm and commitment. You really are painting the big picture.

How can you harness the power of visualization to future-cast for your business?

When you can vividly describe your vision and involve your team, this practice clarifies the path forward and ignites enthusiasm and commitment. You really are painting the big picture.

But Here’s the Twist . . .

Future-casting isn't solely about business success; it's about leaving a legacy.

What kind of legacy do you want your business to leave in your industry and community?

Consider the positive impact you can have, whether it's through sustainable practices, philanthropic endeavors, or groundbreaking innovations.

Future-casting is a journey of purpose and determination. It empowers us to be architects of our futures rather than passive observers of trends.

Now What?

I don’t mean to imply “If you build it, they will come”, as if we’re living in the Field of Dreams (love Kevin Costner!)

What I do mean is ‘big pictures are painted with small brushstrokes.’ Envisioning your future through future-casting gives you a starting place.

Sharing your vision with your staff allows you to break that big picture into actionable implementation steps, shaping your own future.

Speaking of your future, I invite you to attend The What's Next Roundtable™: An Interactive Conversation for Women Experts Who Wonder What’s Next for Their Business.

There is no cost to attend and there will be no pitches. We'll have an informal panel to foster the conversation and opportunities for attendees to interact with each other.

I firmly believe – and have built my business around – the idea that business success and wealth in the hands of women elevates society as a whole. 

It concerns me that very few women are planning for what’s next. That leaves our life’s work, our impact, and our legacy in the hands of fate. We may be just one bad diagnosis away from losing our business entirely. I’ve been there. 

In my view, this is a much-needed discussion we may be putting off, busy handling all the things right in front of us. Now is the time to think and talk about ‘what's next’ for your business.

If you'd like to join the conversation, please complete the Exit Readiness Index™ (ERI) with this assessment: http://she-exits.com/

You’ll receive an email with your ERI results and a link to register for the Roundtable, which is on November 2, 2023 at 10 am Central, for 90 minutes.

Your results provide the foundation for the discussion, so please bring your ERI Category to the Roundtable.

Even if you are not interested in exiting your business, this will help you figure out where you are on your business journey and give you some ideas about building real business value.

This clearer picture will inform your ‘what’s next’. I'm excited to see you on November 2!

All the best, Patty

P.S. Remember to complete the Exit Readiness Index™ with this assessment: http://she-exits.com/ Once you do, you'll receive your results and a link to register for the Roundtable.