Searching for a Future1. Describe several futures for yourself

– Consider needs of the world (gaps/the market)– Consider your real interests, skills and dreams

• Brainstorm with others who know you

– List (many) characteristics of an ideal future for you– Think of several possible futures for you

• Reverse assumptions. Think “Yes/&”

– Select the most interesting futures to explore

2. Select a small panel or “advisory board”

3. Make an exploration/marketing plan

4. Share your plan with your board & execute it!

Developing a Prospective1. What do you like? What are you good at?

– Tell short stories of • what you did in the best times of your life• what you did during your best accomplishments

2. What are your traits, values, skills & accomplishments of which you are most proud?

– Draw from the stories above and have others who know you do the same

3. In your wildest dreams, in what possible areas could you use these skills?

4. What other areas might appeal? What does not?5. Describe several futures in pictures &/or words.

Selectively discuss them with others and modify them

Outline of Prospective

• Traits/Values

• Skills

• Accomplishments

• Possible Futures

• This is a dynamic document. Futures can be modified and combined as new information and ideas are gathered

Three Examples Follow

• Scott the Engineer wanted to get into sales• Detail of futures Scott considered (Scott started

his new job in sales Mon 3/14/03!)• James’ Prospective in 2001• Cathlyn Sullivan’s prospective

Note that these three are light on “futures.” Their authors selected these futures from over 100 futures and characteristics of futures which they verbalized. For another example, go to jbinnovation.com under the Innovation tab.

James Barnes Prospective...Traits & Experiences:Traits: Adaptability, Creativity, Empathy, Energy & Mental AgilityExperience: The People Side of Change; Live and Online Learning; Communities; Strategic Planning; Project Management; Consulting; Relationship Development; Treasury Management; Coaching; Innovation

Accomplishments:Designed 1,100 person leadership program for Verizon; Developed online learning program for Canon; Managed Internet community project; Delivered executive strategic planning offsite at Vanguard; Led $30 million vineyard development for Whitbread; Sold $1.4 million in consulting services in 2000

Areas to Deliver Value:Innovation Consulting & Coaching Project Management