I remember when having internet access at home was a big deal. Now my kids have personal iPads provided by school. At their age, I was still waiting for my turn on the family computer. And if someone needed to use the phone, that was the end of your internet session.
I do wonder what my children will be telling their own kids about the technology they grew up with. Things that are normal will likely sound ridiculous in twenty years.
And with AI, the next decade will bring changes we can't imagine. It's hard to know exactly what our jobs, businesses and careers will look like. But I do think there are certain abilities that will be increasingly valuable, no matter how things change.
Here are the five biggest I'd invest in.
1. Critical and analytical thinking
We're surrounded by information, and AI has made it easier than ever to get an answer to anything. But getting an answer and knowing whether it's good are two different things.
The ability to question assumptions, spot flaws in an argument and make good decisions will always be valuable. Especially when something sounds convincing but might not actually be right.
Try this: Before accepting an answer, consider what assumptions it's based on and what could be missing.
2. Emotional intelligence (EQ)
Some of the most amazing people I've worked with aren't necessarily the most brilliant technically, but they understand people. They know when to listen, handle hard conversations and make people feel heard.
Those things matter so much. As a doctor it's a big part of the training. And as a business owner it's just as important when managing a team, working with clients or building relationships. And I really think they'll matter even more as more of our everyday interactions become automated.
Try this: In your next conversation, actually focus on listening properly rather than thinking about what you're going to say next (harder than it sounds!).
3. Influence and presence
You can have the best idea in the room, but it doesn't count for much if nobody gets it. Being able to communicate clearly, build trust and persuade people is something I've found carries across almost every career.
I've seen it in medicine, consulting and entrepreneurship. When you can explain your thinking and bring others along it makes a huge difference. And that goes beyond face to face, to online content too.
Try this: Find one opportunity this week to share an idea or perspective, whether that's in a meeting, a conversation or something you write.
4. Adaptability
One of the hardest things about change is becoming a beginner again. You spend years learning how to do something well, and then along comes a completely new way to approach it.
It's frustrating, but being willing to learn, experiment and change direction is always a great trait to have. I've certainly had to do so much of this throughout my own career.
Try this: Think of something you've always done a particular way. Is there a better approach you haven't thought of yet?
5. Growth mindset and self-awareness
It's pretty hard to improve if you're not able to recognise where you have room to grow. And it's equally important to know what you're good at.
Knowing your strengths, seeing your blind spots and being open to feedback helps you make better decisions and figure out where to focus your energy. I think there's huge value in being able to say, "I don't know how to do that yet, but I can learn."
Try this: Ask someone you trust what they think is one of your biggest strengths and one area you could improve.
The takeaway
I have no idea what the world of work will look like when my kids are adults.
There will be jobs that don't exist today, and ways of working we haven't imagined. But I hope they'll learn to think for themselves, understand people, communicate well and stay curious.
Because whatever happens with technology, those are abilities that will continue to serve them well.
Speak soon,
Dupé
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