So, what exactly is "remembering the future(s)," you ask?
It's a powerful mental exercise where you take familiar elements from your life—activities, people, places—and combine them in new and unfamiliar ways. Then, you vividly picture yourself in this imagined future scenario, trying to envision how it could come to pass.
But here's where it gets interesting: every time you remember a future that hasn't happened yet, your brain rates it as more likely to occur.
Why?
Because by vividly imagining it, your braintreats it almost like a memory, making it seem more plausible and attainable. It's like planting seeds of possibility in your mind, nurturing the belief that change is not only possible but inevitable.
And guess what?
This technique isn't just a mindgame—it's often part of my Future(s) Training Workshops, where we help individuals and organizations explore different futures and prepare for what lies ahead. By envisioning diverse scenarios and understanding the logical turns of events that could lead to them, we empower ourselves to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world.
Now, let's dive into our featured story: shedding light on the potential hazards of LED lights and how forward-thinking companies are staying ahead of the curve.
Year 2020s - LED lights have been hailed as one of the best energy-efficient inventions of the past 20 years. They’re highly energy-efficient, producing less heat and more light, thus saving you money. In fact, LEDs use 85% electricity compared to conventional lights and 18% less energy than CFLs. (CFLs are compact fluorescent lights that use 20-30% less energy than incandescent bulbs.)
What’s not to love about LED lights then? They’re easier on your bills and they’re saving the environment?
Well, according to recent studies, plenty. According to research (and pretty extensive research too) LED lights are bad for eyes. LED lights produce excess high-energy blue light which affects your eyes and health. AND, despite this, LEDs have become super common for their cost-saving properties. When they were invented in 1962 by Nick Holonyak Jr. Back, a scientist at General Electric, LEDs became the go-to-lighting for colleges, homes and offices.
Companies capitalized on the cost-saving, without knowing about their negative consequences. And being compact, LEDs became the primary source of lighting for digital devices too. Site Ref: https://www.blockbluelight.com/blogs/news/are-led-lights-bad-for-eyes#
Year 2030s - In the aftermath of the widespreadrepercussions of LED-induced blindness, companies that had the foresight to anticipate such risks find themselves in a unique position. By avoiding investments in LED lighting and other technologies associated with blue light exposure, these forward-thinking businesses have spared themselves and their employees from the devastating consequences of retinal damage.
One significant advantage enjoyed by these future-ready companies is their financial stability. While others grapple with the fallout of LED-induced blindness, including costly lawsuits and medical expenses for affected employees, these companies remain unscathed. Their prudent decision to steer clear of investments in LED technology shields them from the financial pitfalls plaguing their counterparts.
Moreover, these companies have gained acompetitive edge in the marketplace by aligning their products and services with the growing demand for blue light-free alternatives. By offering customers LED-free lighting solutions and screen-less technologies, they not only meet evolving consumer preferences but also position themselves as leaders in promoting eye health and wellness.
In essence, by avoiding investments in LED lighting and embracing alternative technologies, future(s)-ready companies have not only safeguarded their employees' vision but also secured their financial future and gained a competitive advantage in the market. Through strategic foresight and proactive decision-making, these companies exemplify the power of preparation in navigating the challenges of an uncertain future.
Remember that the future(s) are not set in stone—it's ours to shape and mold.
By honing our ability to remember the future(s) and envision new possibilities, we empower ourselves to navigate the unknown with confidence and creativity.
So, keep exploring, keep imagining, and keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
Until next time, stay curious, stay inspired, and keep dreaming big!
Be well and happy,
Rich Bukowski
